The famed figures by the gay icon have been transformed into a piece of LEGO art that we’d want to display in our homes…
You’ve seen them featured on hats, socks, tees, phone cases and keychains. Now, Keith Haring’s Dancing Figures are being immortalized in brick form.
LEGO has introduced a new 1,773-piece set featuring one of Haring’s most iconic motifs as part of its ever-expanding LEGO Art collection. The new set captures “the bold lines, vibrant colours and distinctive sense of movement” of Haring’s figures according to the brand. Each of the colourful dancers stand at about 13 inches tall, expressing a sense of rhythm and energy in various positions. The set is not only meant as a fun building activity, but a piece of pop art home decor that can be hung on a wall or propped up by stands to sit on a flat surface.
“Getting to choose Keith Haring’s Dancing Figures was a wonderful choice to have,” LEGO’s master model designer Milan Madge told Fast Company. “The original piece perfectly captures the spirit of joy, motion and connection that defines much of his work.” Madge also noted how his team worked closely with the Keith Haring Foundation, referencing archival materials to ensure the LEGO adaptation stayed true to Haring’s unique style.
Haring is just one of many artists LEGO has reimagined through its famed bricks. The brand has also released buildable versions of Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Hokusai’s The Great Wave and Leonardo DaVinci’s Mona Lisa.
Born in 1958, Haring developed a love of drawing at a young age. He learned the art of cartooning by absorbing the works of Dr. Seuss, Walt Disney and other notable pop culture figures. His time in New York City was central to his development as he embraced his homosexuality and the world around him.
Haring’s art has been praised worldwide for its vibrant colours, upbeat style, energetic linework and recognizable characters. While his art is joyful and eye-catching, he also used it as part of his activism to make statements and educate people on the complex issues of his time. He protested apartheid in South Africa, supported nuclear disarmament and raised awareness about the AIDS crisis.
In 1990, Haring died of AIDS-related complications at the age of 31.
LEGO’s Keith Haring – Dancing Figures building kit retails for $149.99 CAD. Visit www.lego.com.
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