Negative Positive
Title: A fascinating and intimate portrait of an artist
Review: What makes "Keith Haring: The Authorized Biography", such a moving work is its unique approach to the biographical format. Rather than just recount his research into Haring's life, author John Gruen has pieced together writings by Haring, the artist's friends, companions, mentors, and dealers. The narrative switches perspective quite often, resulting in a balanced and more revealing account of Haring's life and art, from different points of view. Among other things, Haring recounts his beginnings as a graffiti artist, his rivalry with the painter Jean-Michel Basquiat, and his coming to terms with being gay, and eventually, his contraction of AIDS. Profusely illustrated throughout, the book also gives an inside look at several aspects of the 80's art scene in New York city. By the end, the reader gains not only a thorough knowledge of Haring the artist, but more importantly, an understanding of the humanist philosophy and intent behind the art
Is the review positive or negative? 