Context is just as important as content

Your environment has a huge impact on what you create and how your creation is received. Every town or city has a culture that makes them a little different than other cities and towns. The influence creeps into your approach whether you recognize it or not. Manhattan was a magnet for artists in his time. This was pre-internet, had he lived in North Carolina it’s likely we wouldn't have ever seen his art.

It’s difficult to compete with people who don’t work a day job

Basquiat was really productive and worked really fast. To have a high output and a refined technique involves serious practice. Being comfortable being homeless was him prioritizing time over convenience.  Imagine trying to work a job, make connections, create art, and master your craft. Having no fallback plan forces you to take advantage of every opportunity.  

You never know who you're in a room with

Give the doorman the same respect you give the manager. You can get a lot of info from the doorman. Plus, you never know how far the doorman’s success might climb. He could make it to the top before you. Many of the people Basquiat partied with when he was homeless, became successful in their own right. Many of the relationships he made became important pieces of his journey as he moved forward. His career wouldn't have been the same without them.   

Racism exists in every area imaginable

The way the art world treated him was shameful. It seemed impossible for them to separate his art from what he looked like. No matter how sophisticated you think people are, they become quite primitive when it comes to race. Fortunately, he addressed many of his issues in his art.

Your work can travel places beyond your physical reach 

I wish he could see his impact right now. It’s important for an artist to travel and see other things. But, what’s more important, is that your art travels. With the internet, your creations can travel further than you and faster than you. You cant be in multiple places at the same time, but your creations can. Show the world what you create - you never know who will set their eyes on it.