Keith Haring painted "Tree of Life" as an homage to his friend Maria Bonnier Dahlin, who died in a car accident in June 1985 at 20 years old and dated it SEPT. 7-1985.

Haring often wrote in his journal that "It's important to be in love with life. Life is fragile and elusive."

This colorful painting is a touching affirmation of life and a celebration of friendship where all the characters are connected to the same tree which reflects his strong belief in equality.

Madonna a close friend of Haring comments quoting her hit of 1985 "Crazy for you". Grace Jones was also among his friends and they had been working together on art performances.

Andy Warhol who was Keith Haring's date to Madonna's wedding a few weeks before adds a comment based on his quote "I have a really loose interpretation of" work "because I think that just being alive is so much work at something you don't always want to do. ”

 

 

Sources: Keith Haring Journals

Catalogue Christies

The Philosophy of Andy Warhol: From A to B and Back Again by Andy Warhol

The Andy Warhol Diaries, Andy Warhol & Pat Hackett