Artist Naderson Saint-Pierre was immersed in his Manhattan studio on Tuesday morning when a friend shared exciting news: his idol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, was finally getting a street named after him by New York City later that very afternoon.
Still in his paint-splattered overalls, Saint-Pierre quickly headed downtown by subway. He joined the growing assembly outside 57 Great Jones Street, a modest building that was once Basquiat’s home and studio, and where the artist tragically passed away in 1988.
The lively gathering drew a diverse mix: longtime East Village residents, local media, and devoted fans sporting Basquiat’s iconic crown motif on their apparel. Prominently present were members of the Basquiat family – his sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins – alongside various city officials.
“It’s truly a beautiful day to witness him receive this honor,” remarked 30-year-old Saint-Pierre, adding, “Having a street named after you is one of the highest distinctions New York can bestow.”
He elaborated, “As a Haitian artist, just like Basquiat, I relate to his journey. When I first arrived in the city with nothing, I sold my art in Tompkins Square Park for twenty dollars and often slept in the subways. Basquiat also navigated similar struggles before achieving his breakthrough. He stands as a powerful testament that artistic dreams in New York are attainable.”
The two-story building at 57 Great Jones served as the creative hub for the Brooklyn-born Basquiat during his ascent to international art stardom. Tragically, he died there from a heroin overdose at the age of 27. For decades, the site has been a pilgrimage spot for street artists, who consistently adorn it with colorful tributes featuring his famous “SAMO” graffiti tag.
“This recognition feels long overdue,” commented East Village resident Michelle Hogan. “Now, visitors on their way to places like Katz’s deli will have a chance to experience a piece of the East Village’s authentic past and understand its profound significance in the narrative of American pop art.”
Her husband, Steve Hogan, observed the scene from beneath a Moncler billboard, showcasing Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. He reflected on the changing landscape of 57 Great Jones Street, now occupied by Angelina Jolie’s fashion boutique, Atelier Jolie.
“Basquiat absolutely deserves this honor,” Mr. Hogan stated, “though I can’t help but wonder what he would think of this block and indeed, downtown New York, as it stands today.”
City Councilman Erik Bottcher addressed the assembled crowd, declaring, “Welcome to Jean-Michel Basquiat Way!” to a burst of applause. He quoted Basquiat: ‘I don’t think about art when I’m working, I try to think about life.’ Bottcher continued, “Today, we celebrate a man whose art beautifully encapsulated life in all its intricate forms—its beauty, its struggles, and its raw truth.”
Bottcher then presented an official proclamation in a blue folder to Basquiat’s sisters, Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux. With Lisane visibly moved to tears, Jeanine expressed gratitude to the city, acknowledging their role in ensuring her older brother’s artistic ‘star continues to burn brightly.’
A collective cheer erupted as a string was pulled, revealing the ‘Jean-Michel Basquiat Way’ street sign at the corner of Bowery and Great Jones. Among the celebratory crowd were former city councilwoman Carlina Rivera and hip-hop historian LeRoy McCarthy, both instrumental in bringing this honorary naming to fruition.
Inside Atelier Jolie’s ground floor, Basquiat’s friends and family enjoyed refreshments like cassava sticks and tostones with garlic sauce. Later, Ms. Heriveaux and Ms. Basquiat ascended to the atelier space, which had once been their brother’s vibrant, paint-splattered bedroom.
“For New York City to honor him in such a significant way in 2025, amidst everything happening, is incredibly meaningful and impactful for our entire family,” Ms. Basquiat expressed. “We truly value this recognition.”
“We frequently visited him here,” Ms. Heriveaux shared, noting the emotional weight of the moment. “Yet, there’s also a profound sense of warmth being back in this place.”
She then pondered what her brother’s reaction to this city tribute might have been.
“I believe he would have been absolutely elated,” Ms. Heriveaux concluded. “He always wanted to be famous; it was something he openly expressed.”
As the crowds dispersed, the street slowly resumed its everyday pace. Delivery riders zipped past on electric bikes, while stylish patrons enjoyed lunch at the Bowery Hotel’s outdoor tables. Above it all, the new sign, proudly bearing Jean-Michel Basquiat’s name, gleamed under the sun.