Behind the Scenes: An Artist Still at Work
Jul 8, 2010

Accidental art in elevator up to Keith Haring Foundation

Even the accidental art in the elevator ride up to the Keith Haring Foundation was inspiring, July 2010. Photograph by Arletny

Accidental art in elevator up to Keith Haring Foundation

When I found out we were visiting the Keith Haring Foundation, which used to be the artist’s painting studio, I almost couldn't believe it. Since it is not really open to the public, I got there and thought, “Okay, Letny. This is most likely going to be a once in a lifetime experience." As someone who has never seen an authentic Keith Haring work in person, I can say, "Before I saw an original piece, I saw his actual studio.” The Keith Haring Foundation is an organization that the artist left behind after he passed, along with his paintings and memories. I was glad we went there because Keith Haring and his work have a vibe and influence that people can automatically embrace. I'm pretty sure it wasn't only me, but I was even enthralled by the paint splatters on the floor and the outlines of leftover paint on the walls from his famous works. I was even captivated by the elevator on the way up to the studio!

Remnants of paintings that must have bled through the surfaces that he worked on

Keith Haring still at work: remnants of paintings that must have bled through the surfaces that he worked on still cover the walls of the late artist's studio, July 2010. Photograph by Arletny

Remnants of paintings that must have bled through the surfaces that he worked on

Another thing I found beautiful is how Haring left this foundation that would still be able to make use of his work. The foundation gives grants to non-profit organizations that have educational missions, such as offering opportunities to underprivileged children. The Keith Haring Foundation also supports organizations that show a commitment to the research of HIV and AIDS. At the foundation, we did a little behind the scenes work and actually had conversations with the staff. We found out what a few people do there, whether it was archiving or administration. We watched a short documentary about Haring and how his career began, which was interesting because he started out by drawing in subway stations. After the documentary, we discussed a few of his paintings. Overall, the experience was amazing and totally made one of my best friends—who is an even bigger fan of Haring's work than I am—completely jealous. Well, at least I showed some consideration and bought him a Keith Haring button!

By Arletny