The relationship between alcohol and art has been well documented, starting with accounts of artists adoration and inspiration from beverage to the more modern collaborations of brands utilizing artistic channels to bring life and character to their products. Some have been successful but often times, they are viewed as selling out. Now, 1800 Tequila is getting in on the action, merging the best in creativity, history, culture, and quality by celebrating the works of the incomparable, Jean-Michel Basquiat.
1800 Tequila has been creating limited-edition bottles with nearly 30 popular artists for the last several years through their Essential Artists Series highlighting big names like Shepard Fairey, Gary Baseman, and Studio One. However we were beyond stoked to find out that this year’s collection will celebrate the works of the late, iconic NYC artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat. The bottle series showcases six original designs from the legendary artist.
Starting out in street art & graffiti under the name SAMO, Basquiat rose to fame through his unconventional style, radical spirit and eccentric personality. His uncompromising passion and talent solidified Jean-Michel Basquiat as a revolutionary figure in NYC society and history even before his untimely death at the age of 27 in 1988.
A rep for 1800 Tequila explains, “Basquiat was a visionary, and a nonconformist role model for strength in simplicity and shared the same core values as the world’s most singularly drinkable tequila, consistently refusing to fall victim to gratuitous trend.”
The limited edition 1800 Tequila Essential Artists series bottles (750ml/40% ABV) will be available at liquor stores in select markets beginning Spring 2014 for $30