Keith Haring's "Sarcophagus," created in collaboration with LA II (Angel Ortiz) in 1983, is a notable piece that bridges Haring's vibrant, iconic visual language with the distinctive graffiti art style of LA II. This work reflects Haring's broader commitment to making art accessible to a wide audience, emphasizing the democratic nature of art and its ability to communicate complex messages through simple, engaging imagery. Haring, known for his activism and public art that often touched on themes of birth, death, sexuality, and war, found a kindred spirit in Ortiz's graffiti art, which was deeply rooted in the street culture of New York's Lower East Side (Haring) (Sothebys.com).
Angel Ortiz, better known as LA II, emerged from the graffiti scene of the Lower East Side during the mid-1970s. His unique style caught Haring's attention, leading to a collaborative relationship that significantly influenced both artists' works. Despite the strong partnership and mutual respect between Haring and Ortiz during their lifetime, LA II's contributions have often been overshadowed in discussions about Haring's legacy. Ortiz's intricate, graffiti-infused squiggles became a hallmark of their collaborative pieces, blending seamlessly with Haring's bold lines and vibrant characters. This partnership is emblematic of a period in New York City's art scene where collaboration across different mediums and backgrounds was not just common but celebrated (Wikipedia).
"Sarcophagus" stands as a testament to this collaborative spirit, embodying the fusion of Haring's pop-infused iconography with LA II's graffiti artistry. The piece showcases Haring's interest in exploring different mediums and forms, moving beyond his iconic two-dimensional work to embrace the three-dimensional form of the sarcophagus, thereby expanding the potential for street art and graffiti to inhabit new spaces and engage with historical and contemporary themes in novel ways.
The collaboration between Keith Haring and LA II, particularly in works like "Sarcophagus," represents a critical moment in the intersection of street art and the mainstream art world. It highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of artists like LA II, who played a significant role in shaping the visual language of one of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century.
