Keith Haring's collaborations with LA II (Angel Ortiz) represent a fascinating and vibrant chapter in the story of 1980s art, blending the iconic visual language of Haring with the graffiti-inspired squiggles and symbols of LA II. Angel Ortiz, who goes by the graffiti tag LA II, emerged from the streets of New York's Lower East Side, introducing a unique style characterized by dense graffiti squiggles and symbols, often likened to street hieroglyphics or calligraffiti. His collaboration with Haring began when Haring, intrigued by LA II's bold line work and street art credentials, approached Ortiz for artistic guidance, aiming to infuse his figures with a more complex, visually engaging background.

Their partnership was both a deep friendship and a creative alliance, with Ortiz contributing significantly to many of Haring's works by filling the spaces between Haring's lines with his trademark symbols. This collaboration brought forth installations and artworks that were celebrated worldwide, yet Ortiz has often been noted as an overlooked figure in art history, particularly when considering the broader recognition of Haring's legacy. Ortiz's contributions were crucial in creating a dialogue between the spontaneity and energy of street art and Haring's distinctive, animated figures, adding depth and texture to Haring's works. Despite the challenges and the sense of being overshadowed, Ortiz views his relationship with Haring positively, focusing on the artistic synergy and friendship they shared rather than the disparities in their posthumous recognition.

Angel Ortiz continues to produce work that captures the essence of 1980s New York graffiti, transferring his tags, symbols, and icons from urban surfaces to canvas, while reflecting on the evolution of graffiti art from a free, expressive medium to one more conscious of social media and branding today. His recent exhibitions, such as "King of Hearts" and "Ode 2 NYC," showcase a matured style that, while polished and presented on canvas, still pays homage to the raw energy and spontaneity of his graffiti roots. These works demonstrate Ortiz's ongoing journey in art, navigating the fine line between evolving artistic expression and staying true to the graffiti art form's original spirit​ (Art Plugged)​​ (USA Art News)​.