Keith Haring painting a mural at Woodhull Hospital. Photo by Tseng Kwong Chi, 1986 © Muna Tseng Dance Projects, Inc., New York

Keith Haring died from AIDS related complications on Feb 16, 1990 when he was just 31 years old.  Though best known for his popular images of radiant babies and barking dogs, Keith also worked in artistic capacities reflecting his generous and socially engaged spirit, such as hosting workshops for children, creating murals for hospitals, and participating in demonstrations and protests in the fight for justice and equity.

An example of such a work is the mural he painted at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY in 1986 as a gift to the hospital for its dedication to healthcare access during the HIV/AIDS crisis.  This mural still exists today and can be visited by the general public.

A page from Keith Haring’s proposal for his Woodhull Hospital mural