In 2021, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles held a special exhibition entitled "Keith Haring: Radiant Vision," which showcased the artist's unique approach to automotive design and his lifelong fascination with cars. The exhibition brought together a range of works from throughout Haring's career, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings, as well as a number of custom-painted vehicles that he created during his lifetime.
One of the highlights of the exhibition was a series of custom-painted cars that Haring designed in the early 1980s, including a BMW Z1 Roadster, a Honda Elite scooter, and a Yamaha motorcycle. Each of these vehicles was meticulously hand-painted by Haring, using his signature bold lines and vibrant colors to create a unique and eye-catching design. The cars were displayed alongside a range of Haring's other works, including paintings, prints, and sculptures, which helped to provide context for his automotive designs and to highlight his interest in the intersection of art and technology.
Another notable feature of the exhibition was a recreation of Haring's famous Pop Shop, a retail store that he opened in New York City in 1986. The Pop Shop was designed to make Haring's artwork more accessible to the general public, and it sold a range of products featuring his iconic designs, including t-shirts, posters, and keychains. The Pop Shop at the Petersen Automotive Museum featured a range of merchandise from Haring's original store, as well as a number of exclusive items that were created specifically for the exhibition.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors were able to explore the many different aspects of Haring's artistic practice, from his early graffiti-inspired works to his later, more complex compositions. They were also able to learn more about Haring's life and legacy, including his commitment to social and political activism and his enduring influence on contemporary art and culture.
The exhibition was curated by the Keith Haring Foundation, in collaboration with the Petersen Automotive Museum, and was timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Haring's death. It was the first major retrospective of Haring's work to be held in Los Angeles in over a decade, and it attracted visitors from around the world who were eager to explore the many different facets of his artistic practice.
Overall, "Keith Haring: Radiant Vision" was a powerful tribute to one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. It provided a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the many different dimensions of Haring's work, from his iconic street art to his innovative automotive designs, and to learn more about his life, his activism, and his enduring legacy. Through its thought-provoking displays and immersive experiences, the exhibition demonstrated the ongoing relevance and importance of Haring's work, and highlighted the continuing impact that he has on contemporary art and culture.
