Jean-Michel Basquiat American, 1960-1988

In 1981, Rene Ricard published "The Radiant Child" in Artforum, an article that was poised to solidify the burgeoning stardom of Jean-Michel Basquiat, while it simultaneously wove in other vibrant threads of the art tapestry of the time, including the underrecognized Judy Rifka. This review revisits Ricard's influential article, unpacking its impact on Basquiat's meteoric rise and advocating for a reevaluation of Rifka's contributions to the art world.

The Times Square Show was a pivotal event in the history of contemporary art, often regarded as a groundbreaking exhibition that marked the emergence of a new wave of avant-garde artists in the early 1980s.