Jean-Paul Basquiat was an influential American artist known for his unique style that combined graffiti, text, and abstract imagery. Born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, he gained fame in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of the Neo-Expressionism movement. His work often addressed themes of race, identity, and social issues, making him a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene. Basquiat began his career as a graffiti artist under the pseudonym SAMO before transitioning to painting. His art is characterized by vibrant colors, bold lines, and a mix of symbols and words. He collaborated with other artists, including Andy Warhol, and his pieces continue to be celebrated and sought after in the art world. Basquiat passed away on August 12, 1988, but his legacy endures.