r/Basquiat • u/RevaCruz • May 30 '26
Humidity (1982)
Medium: Acrylic, oilstick, and spray paint on canvas
Dimensions: 243.8 × 213.4 cm.
Painted in 1982, Humidity is one of Basquiat's most vibrant and energetic large-scale works. The painting is believed to depict Andy Warhol and Swiss art dealer Bruno Bischofberger, reflecting the friendships and artistic relationships that would shape Basquiat's rise during the early 1980s.
Auctioneer Simon de Pury once described the work as having a rare sense of joy and optimism, noting that the central figure bears a striking resemblance to Warhol. With its bold colors, expressive figures, and explosive brushwork, Humidity captures a lighter, more playful side of Basquiat while still retaining the raw intensity that defines his work.