Keith Haring’s untitled screenprints from ‘Telephone’, 1991

The production team at Sesame Street were incredibly eager to collaborate with Keith Haring, an artist who championed philanthropy and love over hate. Unfortunately, the artist’s life was cut tragically short. David Stark, whom Haring had personally appointed to his ‘Keith Haring Foundation’, closely supervised the animation project in his place. Though the animations were broadcast after Haring’s death, they are iconic of the artist not only for his signature cartoon figures, but for their spirit of inclusivity and compassion. The animations were broadcast frequently for a decade, effectively continuing Haring’s legacy. With their philosophy of kindness, what better artworks could help define the New Year?