In the vibrant art scene of 1980s New York, few figures shone as brightly as Keith Haring. Larry Warsh, a downtown collector, became captivated by Haring’s playful and bold subway art. Warsh’s journey began when he attempted to peel a Haring drawing off a subway wall, a moment that sparked a lifelong passion for collecting. Now, that passion is leading him to Sotheby’s, where a collection of Haring’s subway artworks is expected to fetch around $10 million.
Warsh lived near Astor Place, surrounded by the energy and creativity of New York’s underground art movement. He recalls the thrill of witnessing Keith Haring’s iconic angels and figures adorning the subway walls. “I tried to pull it off and I couldn’t get it,” Warsh shared about his first attempt. This initial failure ignited a quest for Haring’s works, leading him to purchase pieces from those who had successfully removed them.
The Value of Keith Haring’s Subway Art
The collection now going to auction includes 31 pieces of Haring’s “Subway Drawings,” created between 1980 and 1985. These artworks, originally chalk drawings on black paper, represent a unique moment in art history. Warsh notes that at the time, many people didn’t understand the significance of Haring’s work. “They came in a roll,” he explains, highlighting the humble beginnings of these now-iconic pieces.
As Haring’s fame grew, so did the appreciation for his subway art. Today, these drawings are celebrated as cultural artifacts, embodying the spirit of a vibrant era. Warsh’s foresight in collecting these pieces is a testament to his understanding of the art world and its evolving landscape. “You have to take risks and feel comfortable with your ability to jump into a moment,” he reflects.
Keith Haring’s Legacy in New York
Keith Haring’s impact on New York’s art scene is immeasurable. He was not only a prolific artist but also a cultural icon, dedicated to making art accessible to everyone. Warsh remembers Haring as “a lovely human being” who was deeply involved in the community. “If you were in that era, there was an energy, and you could feel its importance,” he recalls, emphasizing the connection between Haring and his contemporaries.
Haring’s artwork transcended traditional boundaries, often addressing social issues and advocating for public engagement with art. This ethos resonates with Warsh, who hopes that the new owners of Haring’s subway art will continue to share these works with the public. “I hope anybody who buys this will loan them to museums,” he states, underscoring the importance of accessibility in art.
Auction Experience at Sotheby’s
On November 21, Warsh’s collection will be displayed at Sotheby’s in a unique recreation of a subway station, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in the environment where Haring’s art originally thrived. This setup not only honors Haring’s legacy but also enhances the viewing experience for potential buyers. “It took a while for me to want to part with them,” Warsh admits, sharing the bittersweet nature of the auction.
As the date approaches, excitement surrounding the auction is palpable. The estimated $10 million valuation reflects not only the monetary worth of the pieces but also their historical significance. Each drawing tells a story, capturing a fleeting moment in time when Keith Haring’s art transformed the urban landscape into a vibrant canvas.
Preserving Keith Haring’s Art for Future Generations
Warsh’s decision to sell his collection is rooted in a desire to share Haring’s vision with a broader audience. “These were meant for the public, and now they will have a chance to see them,” he explains. This sentiment aligns perfectly with Haring’s own belief that art should be for everyone, not confined to galleries and private collections.
As collectors and art enthusiasts prepare to bid on these remarkable works, the legacy of Keith Haring continues to live on. His subway drawings are more than just art; they represent a cultural movement that challenged norms and encouraged dialogue. Warsh’s collection serves as a reminder of that vibrant time in New York, ensuring that Haring’s spirit remains accessible for generations to come.
In a city known for its dynamic art scene, Larry Warsh’s journey with Keith Haring’s subway art exemplifies the intersection of passion, history, and community. As these pieces transition from private collection to public auction, they carry with them the energy of an era that shaped the future of art in New York.
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