Debbie Dick 1984

Keith Haring made this painting, Debbie Dick, using acrylics, that classic medium of pop art, on what looks like a very smooth surface. I love how Haring lays down the heavy black outlines, defining the forms with such clarity, while the colours stay flat, almost like a sign. You know, Haring was super inspired by street art and graffiti, so that probably explains why the colours are so bold and graphic – like he’s making a statement, shouting from a wall. I can imagine Haring just going for it, laying down the strokes with confidence. There’s a sense of playful irreverence in his work, a kind of wink to the viewer that says, "Hey, art doesn't have to be so serious all the time!" Haring’s art really opened up painting to new audiences. And in a way, he kind of brought the street into the gallery, and made us rethink what art could be.