ToonSeum to Run “Animating Haring!” Exhibit from Oct 22, 2011 to Feb 26, 2012

Superheroes at the Andy Warhol Museum? A Keith Haring exhibition at the ToonSeum? Has the museum world gone topsy-turvey?

This summer, the ToonSeum presented its popular exhibit “Superheroes: Icons and Origins” – a showcase of the most iconic superhero characters of all time as drawn by their original masters. This fall, the Andy Warhol Museum offers up “Heroes and Villians: The Comic Book Art of Alex Ross.”

In what is clearly a Bizarro comic plot twist, the ToonSeum is putting its own spin on Andy Warhol contemporary and collaborator Keith Haring! The ToonSeum is presenting “Animating Haring!” – an exhibit celebrating Haring inspired animation art.

“Pop art has recognized the role of comics and cartoons for decades,” said ToonSeum Executive Director Joe Wos. “The influence of cartoons on Keith Haring’s bold line drawings is undeniable and lends itself well to the art of animation.”

Twenty pieces will be on display on the ToonSeum hall gallery– featuring the playful dancing men, colorful dogs and other iconic symbols used by Haring throughout his career. These original production cels and sketches are from animated segments produced for Sesame Street of America under the guidance and approval of the Keith Haring Foundation.

Haring was born in Kutztown, Pa. The cartoon work of Dr. Seuss and Walt Disney Studios are credited as his earliest inspirations. In 1976, he attended the Ivy School of Professional Art in Pittsburgh. After dropping out, he remained in Pittsburgh for a few years, then eventually moved to New York. His cartoon-inspired simple bold lines and vibrant colors became his trademark style and garnered international recognition. The ToonSeum is delighted to recognize Haring’s roots as a young cartoonist.

The exhibition will run from Oct. 22-Feb. 26 in the ToonSeum Hall Gallery.