Monday Meme: Keith Haring

During the 1980’s and 90’s the world lost dozens of talented artists to AIDS.  Keith Haring who would have been 58 on May 4 was one of them. We celebrate Haring and his art with a Monday Meme. Much of Haring’s work documented his struggle with AIDS and the nation’s prejudices and homophobia of the times. Before his diagnosis, Haring was knew he was in danger of contracting the disease and felt a push to have his art reflect what was happening in the world around him. “The odds are very great and, in fact, the symptoms already exist,” he wrote in 1987. “I know in my heart that is only divine intervention that has kept me alive this long. I don’t know if I have five months or five years, but I know my days are numbered. This is why my activities and projects are so important now. To do as much as possible as quickly as possible.” Haring’s “Silence = Death” show inspired the logo still associated with the battle against AIDS. Haring passed away on February 16, 1990 due to AIDS complications. Today, Haring’s art illustrates the struggle and courage of those living with AIDS as well as the fight for equality for LGBT.