Keith Haring lived in the East Village. He hung around with my girlfriend, Ann M. I saw him at various art galleries around the world. His paintings on dog boys on their knees found a niche in the market. He made millions and left it all to his friends and foundation. Keith was a good guy and probably would appreciate Jirapat Tatsanasomboon’s stealing his image for his recent paintings for a show in Bangkok.
Plagiarism is a great compliment, although Ferrari didn’t think so when I was knocking off their shirts and jackets.
Jirapat has incorporated traditional Thai heroes for his versions of works by Haring, Warhol, Jeff Koons, Robert Indiana and other pop icons. None of their lawyers have contacted him yet, but I’m sure Andy Warhol’s foundation will come knocking.
Art is just not a man’s name.
To see Jirapat Tatsanasomboon’s work click on this URL
http://www.thavibu.com/thailand/jirapat_tatsanasomboon/THA2200.htm
For a related article click on this URL
https://www.mangozeen.com/2009/05/31/crime/copyright-infringement-cops-on-the-prowl.htm