Jean-Michel Basquiat was an influential American artist known for his raw, expressive style that combined text and imagery. Emerging from the New York City graffiti scene in the late 1970s, he gained fame in the 1980s for his unique approach to painting, which often addressed themes of race, identity, and social issues. Basquiat's work is characterized by vibrant colors, bold lines, and a mix of symbols and words. He collaborated with notable artists like Andy Warhol and became a prominent figure in the contemporary art world, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire artists today.