This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/3/2023
Memorial TRIBUTE CARD Keith Haring Special Funeral Program
Dimensions Folded: 9 x 5.5 Inches (22.86 x 13.97 cm)
Dimensions Full Extension: 9 x 16.5 Inches (22.86 x 41 cm)
Piece(s): One ( with six sub-pages folded in thirds)
Format: Folded back-to-back, brochure format, Beige Cardstock
Details: The Program Cover depicts one of Haring's most famous drawings and the memorial location and date. Opening the pamphlet - there is a note from Keith. Haring wrote the letter the year before his death on May 3, or the day before his last birthday. This quote was a private note written by Haring in 1987 and was made public to the few who received this memorial pamphlet. This quote entered the public domain when the Keith Haring Foundation published it in 2015. The quote reflects Keith Haring both as an artist and a person, with inspirational revelations he shares through direct communication - mimicking his artistic style - which is part of his core beliefs. Following is the Order of Service. Despite being openly against "all dogmas" and religions, the Order of Service includes scriptures read by the reverend, while the funeral ended with prayers. The following two pages have the funeral program, including performances of Untitled (For Keith) - A Work in Progress by Molissa Fenley, A Fool For You, Morgen Opus 27, No.4, Didos Lament, and New World Youth. The back of the program, from left to right, begins with a quote from the Little Prince: which references leaving behind a legacy that will make you smile, despite the sadness of his passing. Haring includes a quote and the poem "The Angel" by Matilde Wesendonk. The program ends with thanks to the memorial's contributors.
Imagery: The memorial program is not the last of Keith Haring. However, it is his final goodbye to his audience (the world). The selection of the drawing of "Man Holding Radiant Baby" (Untitled artwork) indicates the iconic images Haring used to express opinions on controversial and pivotal topics such as life, death, sex, universal meanings, and many more - whatever was relevant at the time. This icon is one of Harings that has been depicted in several of his works and by itself - Drawn in 88. Haring strove to produce meaningful work, and his hieroglyphic- depictions have a semiotic meaning that he wanted his audience to interpret. The man holding the radiant baby over his head nods to the rebirth of generations.
Rarity/Acquisition: The provision of this particular Memorial card was to only a few of the funeral attendees, Haring's closest friends, which is how Pamela French acquired the rare program, different from the popularly known memorial invitations (The screen printed image of the radiant baby and the dancing dog). Pamela French, a producer and Director, was part of the art scene and close friends with Haring during the 70s and 80s. Often visiting the artist at his flat - she would take polaroids of Haring as he went about his daily life, drawing or simply living. Their friendship lasted until Haring died in 1990, and its strength is evident in that Haring designed Pamela's wedding invitation while providing her with the original hand-drawn piece. Not only did he make French artwork, but he gave her many flyers, branded products from the "POP SHOP", and exclusive memorabilia personal to the artist. ?
Haring unfortunately passed away on February 16 1990, and the Memorial service was held May 4 at the Cathedral of St John the Divine Church in New York City.
Over 1,000 People were in attendance (Not all received this particular program)
Comes with Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity