Jean-Michel Basquiat, born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1960, began his journey into the art world at an early age. As a teenager, he and his friend Al Diaz took to the streets of Manhattan, spray-painting cryptic messages and symbols on buildings and walls, a practice they called “SAMO.” This early form of street art, which combined text and image, caught the attention of downtown New Yorkers and eventually led to Basquiat’s first gallery show in 1978.

Basquiat’s rise to fame was rapid and remarkable. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he became a fixture of the downtown art and music scene, performing with bands like Gray and playing in the band Test Pattern. His unique style, which blended graffiti, street art, and neo-expressionism, resonated with the public and critics alike. By the time he was 20, Basquiat was exhibiting in prominent galleries and museums, and his work was being collected by some of the most influential figures in the art world.

Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Jean-Michel Basquiat’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 billion. This significant figure is a testament to his enduring popularity and the value of his artwork in the contemporary art market.

Career

Basquiat, born in Brooklyn in 1960, rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a graffiti artist under the tag SAMO. He then transitioned into the neo-expressionist movement, creating vibrant, symbol-rich paintings that often explored themes of race, identity, and power. His work was exhibited in prominent galleries and museums, and he became one of the most influential artists of his generation.

Other Ventures

In addition to his successful art career, Basquiat also ventured into music. He played in the noise rock band Gray, which he formed with his friend Michael Holman. However, his musical endeavors remained largely overshadowed by his prominent presence in the art world.

Assets

Basquiat’s most valuable assets are undoubtedly his artwork. Pieces like “Untitled (1982)” sold for a record-breaking $110.5 million at Sotheby’s in 2017. He also owned several properties in New York City, including his former studio and residence at 57 Great Jones Street.

Annual Income

Jean-Michel Basquiat’s annual income during his peak years (1982-1988) is estimated to have been around $25 million. However, these figures are not adjusted for inflation and do not reflect his earnings posthumously, as his artwork continues to generate significant revenue through sales and exhibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Basquiat

1. What was Jean-Michel Basquiat’s net worth?

Jean-Michel Basquiat’s net worth was estimated to be around $200 million at the time of his death.

2. How did Basquiat become famous?

Basquiat gained fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s as part of the Neo-Expressionist movement. He started as a graffiti artist in New York City, and his work quickly gained recognition in the art world.

3. What was Basquiat’s most famous artwork?

Basquiat’s most famous artwork is “Untitled” (1982), which sold for $110.5 million at Sotheby’s in 2017, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold at auction.

4. Who were some of Basquiat’s influences?

Basquiat was influenced by a wide range of artists and cultural figures, including Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and the Beat poets. He was also heavily influenced by his Haitian heritage and African art.

5. How did Basquiat die?

Basquiat died of a heroin overdose on August 12, 1988, at the age of 27.

6. What was Basquiat’s relationship with Andy Warhol?

Basquiat and Warhol were close friends and collaborators in the early 1980s. They met in 1980 and quickly became one of the most famous duos in the art world.

7. How did Basquiat’s upbringing influence his art?

Basquiat’s upbringing in New York City, particularly his experiences growing up in Brooklyn and living in Manhattan, had a significant influence on his art. His work often reflected his experiences as a young black man in America.

8. What was Basquiat’s relationship with his mother?

Basquiat had a complex relationship with his mother, Matilde. They were close when he was young, but their relationship became strained as he gained fame and struggled with drug addiction.

9. What was Basquiat’s artistic process like?

Basquiat’s artistic process was often spontaneous and intuitive. He would often start with a simple phrase or image and build upon it, using a variety of materials and techniques.

10. What happened to Basquiat’s art after his death?

After Basquiat’s death, his art gained even greater recognition and value. His estate was managed by his former girlfriend, Jennifer Goode, and his work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. In recent years, his art has set record prices at auction.