Jean-Michel Basquiat, the late, great, Black American neo-expressionist painter and graffiti artist, is being given a beautiful tribute by his close friend Roger Guenveur Smith in his one-man show “In Honor of Jean-Michel Basquiat,” playing at New York Theatre Workshop on E. 4th St. through Oct. 10. The 60-minute performance is an intense sharing session as Smith lets the audience know about his very talented friend, who sadly passed away at the tender age of 27.
Sitting in the audience, you can feel the emotion, the love, and the respect that Smith had for his friend. You learn about the artist’s parents, about his being part of a band, and about his involvement in the art scene — from the 1970s with graffiti art to the ‘80s where his paintings skillfully and stunningly blended African, Caribbean, and pop culture elements. Smith shows that Basquiat had great respect and regard for Black people, and held powerful political convictions that he demonstrated through his paintings.
Smith reveals how society does not always give Black artists opportunities, but is all too glad to capitalize on their work. It is a shame that artists are often not appreciated until they are gone. Smith is also honest in sharing that Basquiat had personal issues and that his demons were something that he, sadly, could not overcome.
It’s clear that Smith felt that he and Basquiat were on a journey together, and it is quite touching how Smith manages to illustrate the patterns in Basquiat’s life that demonstrate how our lives truly can come full circle. There are times where you can vividly see that Smith is missing his friend as he performs through tears. Watching this play makes you realize how much one person can shape the lives of so many others, for decades to come.
While Smith created and performs the show, his presentation is only amplified by the live sound design of Marc Anthony Thompson, who was also close to Basquiat. Go and see this show, learn about this artist, and experience his magnificent work. For tickets visit nytw.org.
