TASCHEN has been running the Basic Art Series since 1985 with a passion for art and architecture. Part of this series is this comprehensive book about the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. The New Yorker was already world-famous at the age of 20 and his socially critical works were well received. Basquiat combines graffiti with gallery art without losing his authenticity with influences of racism and criticism of power structures. The influence of Greek, Roman and African art can be found in many of his works and make Basquiat so unmistakable. Poetry and painting mingle over 96 pages to immerse the viewer in Basquiat's extensive world.