Lucky Strike 1987

Keith Haring made this "Lucky Strike" print in 1987, and what strikes me first is how immediate it is, like a sign, or a tag on the street. It’s all about bold outlines and flat colors, like he's working with a stencil, embracing that pop art energy. The orange figure is wild! It’s jumping, or dancing, right on top of that iconic Lucky Strike pack. Haring's lines are so confident, so clean, but they still have this raw, hand-drawn feel. The whole thing is so physical. It's not trying to hide its process. You can practically feel the energy of the artist in those marks. The way the figure is outlined in black, it really pops against that bright blue background. Haring's work always reminds me a bit of Fernand Léger, that same interest in everyday objects, simplified forms, and a kind of joyful, urban sensibility. It’s art that’s not afraid to be out there, making a statement, but always open to interpretation. Is it about addiction? About joy? About the dangers of consumerism? It is all up for grabs here.