I created this triptych in my “Scared Art” theology course, in order to honor Keith Haring and his legacy. This triptych highlights 3 important aspects of Haring’s beliefs.

The left figure represents his message of making art accessible for ordinary people. Haring had pop-up shops where he sold his art for relatively cheaper prices than normal, and he regularly drew art on the subway walls. The hands holding glasses surrounding wide eyes embodies the millions of people impacted by his art.

The central figure demonstrates his activism surrounding aids awareness and ending the stigma surrounding aids. The phrase “Silence = Death” comes from his piece, “Ignorance = Fear,” which my triptych is based on. The hands behind the ears tells the viewer that we must still listen, and speak about the topics we believe in.

The figure on the right represents Haring’s belief in sharing simple artistic symbols to inspire happiness in the midst of difficult times. He is known for his “happy baby” and “barking dog” symbols. The figure’s cupped hands around his mouth remind the viewer me must continue to celebrate happiness in our surroundings, to get us through hardship.