Keith Haring: Future Primeval

January 15 - February 24, 1991

Keith Haring: Future Primeval is the first major survey in the United States of the artist’s paintings, drawings, and sculptures from 1979 to 1985. By the time of his death at age 31, Haring had produced a vast and diverse body of work, ranging from his subway drawings to scores of public murals. As an innovative and tireless draftsman, painter and muralist, Haring explored endless permutations of symbols which simultaneously capture the mystery of ancient ritual and the obsessions of high-tech society. Perhaps more than any other contemporary artist, he has reached audiences far beyond the boundaries of galleries and museums.

Over 100 drawings, sculptures, and painted found objects are featured in the exhibition. Many of the works selected, particularly found objects of wood and metal, and chalk on black paper subway drawings have never been reproduced or exhibited in galleries or museums in this country. Paintings on paper, vinyl, leather, tarpaulin, canvas, plexiglass, wood and metal are included, as well as small-scale steel sculptures, painted vases, automobile hoods, a painted crib, and a special "black light" installation featuring several day-goo drawings and wooden reliefs by the artist.