New Jean-Michel Basquiat Way officially opened in downtown Manhattan.

In a significant tribute to the artistic legacy of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a stretch of Great Jones Street in downtown Manhattan has been co-named “Jean-Michel Basquiat Way.” The decision was officially announced on October 21, 2025, during a ceremony attended by city officials, members of the Basquiat family, local community leaders, and cultural figures.

Located between Bowery and Lafayette, this stretch of street holds profound significance for Basquiat, who resided at 57 Great Jones Street between 1983 and his untimely death at the age of 27 in 1988. This area was integral to his creative journey, serving as both his home and studio during some of his most productive years. Basquiat rose to prominence in the 1980s, earning recognition for his unique style that blended graffiti, symbolism, and expressive art, ultimately redefining contemporary art.

In recent years, Basquiat’s works have seen a resurgence in popularity, breaking auction records and being featured in prominent exhibitions worldwide. His art has graced products from high-profile brands such as Tiffany & Co., Coach, Old Navy, and Uniqlo, as well as inspired designs for the Brooklyn Nets’ uniforms. This co-naming underscores the artist’s enduring impact and the cultural significance of his work.

City Council members emphasized that the dedication of the street not only honors Basquiat’s contributions to the art world but also acknowledges his identity as a pioneering Black artist whose socially conscious work continues to resonate. The area surrounding 57 Great Jones Street was once at the epicenter of New York’s vibrant creative scene, providing a backdrop for Basquiat’s artistic evolution.

Siblings Jeanine Heriveaux and Lisane Basquiat attended the ceremony, expressing their appreciation for the honor bestowed upon their brother. The family’s sentiment highlights the personal and cultural significance of this recognition, considering Basquiat’s profound connection with New York City.

The street naming is part of a broader recognition of Basquiat’s legacy, which includes permanent displays of his work at esteemed institutions such as the Brooklyn Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and The Whitney in New York. In 2017, he was posthumously awarded the key to Brooklyn, and his influence continues to be celebrated through various artistic and theatrical endeavors, including the acclaimed Broadway play “The Collaboration,” which explores his relationship with fellow artist Andy Warhol.

As New York City continues to celebrate its rich artistic heritage, the recognition of Jean-Michel Basquiat Way serves as a poignant reminder of the indelible mark left by one of the 20th century’s most influential artists. This tribute not only fosters a connection to the past but also paves the way for future generations to appreciate and engage with Basquiat’s extraordinary contributions to art and culture.

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