Keith Haring's artistic identity was significantly shaped by his personal struggles with societal expectations and the influence of urban culture. Growing up in a conservative environment, he grappled with issues of identity and sexuality, which he later expressed through his art. Haring's experiences in New York City's vibrant street culture informed his use of public art as a medium for activism, particularly around issues like AIDS awareness and homosexuality. His distinctive style and vibrant imagery served as both a celebration of life and a protest against societal norms, making him a crucial figure in the intersection of art and activism.