BRUSSELS.- Keith Haring's motto “art is for everybody” has been read, photographed and shared by thousands during recent months. Back in the 1980s, Haring’s idealism in believing art should reach as many people as possible was an inspiration for his drawing and painting. Today, his retrospective sets a new record as BOZAR's most visited exhibition ever! Since it opened on 6 December, more than 180,000 people have seen it. The top three is now completed by Michaël Borremans (144,000 visitors) and Frida Kahlo (118,000 visitors).

“Keith Haring went right to the essence and his work absorbs that energy. No more cynicism and indifference; Haring brings a message of hope. The public senses this and it is at the heart of his success.” – Sophie Lauwers, Director Exhibitions at BOZAR.




Even in this time of corona when numbers had to be limited, the visitor figures were anything but disappointing. Haring's message to society of hope and solidarity also resounds now more than ever. For many young people, this exhibition was the moment to discover the work of this American artist and activist of the 1980s. High time indeed for such a (re)discovery.

"Keith Haring was a voice of an entire generation. Now we're faced with the same questions he asked 30 years ago. His visual power and the relevance of his social messages seem to resonate more strongly than ever with the public, even - or even more - in times of crisis. He was way ahead of his time." - Paul Dujardin, Artistic Director BOZAR

As a health safeguard, the exhibition closed its doors for several weeks but through the online platform“BOZAR at Home” Keith Haring was present in living rooms everywhere. From the popular activities for children to virtual tours, the exhibition remains accessible online as BOZAR continues to welcome virtual visitors.