
Andy Mouse
5 works

Dog, 1986
Screen print in red on black painted plywood
50 1/8 x 37 3/4 in 127.3 x 95.9 cm
Edition
Edition of 10
Keith Haring's Best Buddies screen print is a vibrant and emblematic artwork that encapsulates the artist's iconic style and his commitment to social causes. Created in 1990, Best Buddies exemplifies Haring's ability to merge bold lines, bright colors, and simple yet impactful imagery to convey complex messages.At first glance, Best Buddies appears as a joyful composition featuring two figures locked in a tight embrace. Haring's distinctive figures, characterized by their fluid lines and lack of facial features, exude a sense of unity, friendship, and inclusivity. The figures' intertwined bodies convey a powerful message of love, support, and solidarity, transcending barriers of race, gender, and sexuality.However, a closer examination reveals deeper layers of meaning within the artwork. Haring was openly gay and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and Best Buddies can be interpreted as a celebration of queer love and companionship. In a time when the AIDS epidemic was ravaging the LGBTQ+ community, Haring used his art as a platform to raise awareness and promote acceptance and understanding.The title Best Buddies further reinforces the theme of friendship and camaraderie. Haring believed in the transformative power of human connection and often portrayed figures coming together in gestures of solidarity. In Best Buddies, the embrace between the two figures symbolizes the universal need for love, acceptance, and companionship.The use of the screen printing technique enhances the visual impact of the artwork. Haring's bold, graphic style lends itself well to this medium, allowing for crisp lines and vibrant colors. The simplicity of the composition belies its emotional depth, drawing viewers in and inviting them to contemplate the significance of human connection.Best Buddies is not only a testament to Keith Haring's artistic talent but also a poignant reflection of his humanitarian values. Through his art, Haring sought to break down barriers and foster a sense of belonging and community. Best Buddies stands as a timeless reminder of the power of love and friendship to transcend differences and unite us all.
Price on Application
Auction History

Dog · Keith Haring · Phillips · 2020-01 · $1,042,740

Untitled "Figure Balancing On Dog" · Keith Haring · Christie's · 2014-05 · $677,000

Dog · Keith Haring · Bonhams · 2020-03 · $646,553

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