“I am Forever 27” Collection

InI AM Jean-Michel, Kim Violenes pays tribute to Jean-Michel Basquiat, one of the most iconic members of the “27 Club.” Known for his intense creativity and raw, emotive style, Basquiat left an indelible mark on the art world before his untimely passing at age 27. This piece draws upon Basquiat’s spirit, capturing his fearless approach to art and his uncompromising sense of self. Through Violenes’ unique lens, we see elements of Basquiat’s rebellious energy, his voice resonating through her brushstrokes and the layered textures of newspaper and acrylics.

TheI Am Forever 27 series is Violenes’ homage to the talented yet tortured souls who left the world at age 27, often called the “27 Club.” This tragic fraternity began in the late ’60s and early ’70s with the deaths of musicians like Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison, and has since grown to include other influential artists who passed too soon. Violenes’ series celebrates these figures not only for their artistic contributions but also for their struggles and unique perspectives, seeking to honor their legacies and the emotional depths they brought to their work.

With I AM Jean-Michel, Violenes connects with Basquiat’s raw spirit and enduring legend, inviting viewers to reflect on the passion and complexity of those who created in the face of inner turmoil. Each piece in the I Am Forever 27 series embodies a tribute to these artists’ lives and legacies, honoring their artistry and the enduring influence they continue to have.