The Basquiat Project: Looking Back, Moving Forward

The Basquiat Project: Looking Back, Moving Forward is an art exhibit featuring artworks created by New York City students inspired by Brooklyn-born artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Join us for the fifth annual free event at Barclays Center on Sunday, July 20 from 12:30-3:30PM inside the arena’s Main Atrium and enjoy 80 artworks on display, representing 28 participating New York City Public Schools.

MORE ABOUT THE BASQUIAT PROJECT

Since 2020, the Basquiat Project has brought Brooklyn teachers and students together to study and engage with the life and work of Brooklyn artist Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988). Known for creating art on nearly anything he could find, Basquiat poured his boundless energy into works that celebrated friendship, honored his Haitian-Puerto Rican heritage, and challenged the injustices he witnessed. Inspired by Basquiat’s perceptive art, the project encourages students to explore their identities, confront inequities, and speak their truths through visual art. Like Basquiat, these young artists create to be seen and to let viewers know what matters most to them. This opportunity was made possible through the Joe and Clara Tsai Foundation’s Social Justice Fund in partnership with the New York City Public Schools Arts Office and the Fund for New York City Public Schools.