Jean-Michel Basquiat's artistic vision was shaped by experiences in his youth. Growing up in Brooklyn, he was influenced by the vibrant street art and graffiti scene, exposing him to various artistic expressions. His Haitian and Puerto Rican heritage played a critical role in the themes of identity and race within his work. Basquiat's experiences with societal issues, such as racism and the art world's elitism, further fueled his desire to convey powerful messages through his pieces, ultimately redefining contemporary art and the expression of marginalized voices.