Unveiling the Life of an Electric Artist
Jean-Michel Basquiat, the legendary artist known for his dynamic and trailblazing works, is set to become the subject of a new feature documentary titled “King Pleasure.” The film will be produced by Boardwalk Pictures, known for “Val and Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?” and Quinn Wilson, former creative director for Lizzo, will direct it. This project has gained the support of Basquiat’s estate, granting full access to a treasure trove of archival materials, never-before-seen home movies, notebooks, photographs, animations, and interviews.
A Promising Lineup of Producers and Collaborators
Boardwalk Pictures, along with Andrew Fried, Jordan Wynn, and Dane Lillegard, will be the key producers of the documentary, teaming up with Quinn Wilson and Ileen Gallagher. The film boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Basquiat’s sisters, Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux, who run the estate with their stepmother, Nora Firtzpatrick. Other notable executive producers include Anthony Konigbagbe, Katherine Oliver, Lindsay Firestone, James Cunningham, and Emi Stewart.
A Tale of Art and Friendship
Jean-Michel Basquiat, an iconic figure in the art world, began his journey in the graffiti scene of New York during the late ’70s. He quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the youngest artists ever to exhibit at the Whitney Biennial in New York. Basquiat’s story is intricately woven with his close friendship with the legendary artist, Andy Warhol. Tragically, Basquiat’s life was cut short by a heroin overdose in 1988, leaving behind a profound impact on the art community.
The Estate’s Dedication to His Legacy
Basquiat’s sisters, Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux, have devoted significant time and effort to curate a comprehensive exhibition showcasing their brother’s life and work. The “Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure” exhibition featured over 200 of his pieces and took place in both New York and Los Angeles. This dedication to preserving his legacy extends to the upcoming documentary, where they are actively participating as executive producers.
A Fresh Perspective on the Prolific Artist
Director Quinn Wilson expressed her excitement about the project, having gained a profound understanding of Jean-Michel Basquiat through stories and recollections shared by his family. She believes the documentary will present a unique narrative, unveiling previously unseen artwork, thoughts, and memorabilia, shedding new light on the enigmatic artist.
Honoring the True Basquiat
The Basquiat family, with the false depictions and narratives surrounding Jean-Michel’s life, is thrilled to set the record straight and recenter his legacy. They express full confidence in the Boardwalk team and Quinn Wilson, expecting the documentary to be an intimate, powerful, and beautiful portrayal of the artist, not just as an artistic genius, but as a person with a compelling story.
Continuing the Basquiat Legacy
With the upcoming “King Pleasure” documentary, the world will get an opportunity to explore the life and genius of Jean-Michel Basquiat through a fresh lens. Armed with unparalleled access to personal archives and insights from his family, the film promises to bring to light a more comprehensive understanding of the artist’s journey, struggles, and impact on the art world.
Feature Image: Jean – Michel Basquiat at the surprise birthday party for Susanne Bartsch at the Rainbow Roof, at Steven Greenberg’s office, 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Thursday, September 19, 1985. COurtesy: PATRICK MCMULLAN/GETTY IMAGES
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