Haring, Keith (1958-1990)

Keith Haring (May 4, 1958 - February 16, 1990) was an artist and social activist whose work responded to the New York City street culture of the 1980s. Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, Haring grew up in Kutztown and was interested in art from an early age. From 1976 to 1978 he studied graphic design at The Ivy School of Professional Art, a commercial and fine art school in Pittsburgh. At age 19 Haring moved to New York City, where he was inspired by graffiti art, and studied at the School of Visual Arts.