TIER III
WANTED
Having met at a house party thrown by Stan Peskett in the late 1970’s, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Danny Rosen became close friends and nightlife regulars, eventually forming part of the New York club scene’s “Baby Crowd”. By the fall of 1980, Jean-Michel’s star was rising vis-a-vis The Times Square Show and he would soon become the sensation of Diego Cortez’ “New York/New Wave” exhibition at PS1; yet his close connection with Rosen remained. Indeed, the illustration for this performance, along with a later painting from 1983 titled “Danny Rosen”, speaks to the strength of their friendship.
The present flyer is particularly notable for its design by Basquiat. Featuring portraits of Danny Rosen and Kenny (?), the words “2 Brusheads in Action” and Willy Mays©, this extremely rare piece is an early example of Basquiat’s usage of a copyright symbol and crossed-out text. It is also presumed Willy [sic] Mays is a reference to Basquiat himself, who was then nicknamed Willie Mays.
Details: Kenny (and) Danny (Danny Rosen)
Venue: Tier III
Date: October 30, 1980
keywords: flyer; basquiat; danny rosen; band; music; willie mays; willy mays
