The Iconic History and Practical Uses of the Basquiat Tote Bag

The Iconic Basquiat Tote Bag

The Typo x Basquiat tote bag has become an iconic bag beloved by many. With its vibrant colors and artistic design featuring Basquiat's signature graffiti-inspired artwork, this bag makes a statement wherever you take it.

History of the Basquiat Tote Bag

The Basquiat tote bag was born out of a collaboration between the Australian accessory and stationery brand Typo and the estate of late artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Jean-Michel Basquiat was a pioneering neo-expressionist artist known for his urban graffiti-inspired style who sadly passed away in 1988 at the age of 27.

The Typo x Basquiat collaboration was launched in 2018 and featured a collection of accessories adorned in Basquiat's iconic artwork and motifs, including the now famous tote bag design. The vibrant and eye-catching tote became an instant hit among fans of Basquiat's work, street culture followers, and everyday consumers alike.

An Everyday Essential

The Typo x Basquiat tote bag rapidly earned its reputation as not only a stylish accessory but also a sturdy and extremely practical bag for everyday use. Made from 100% cotton canvas with a reinforced bottom, this is a lightweight yet durable tote perfect for carrying your daily essentials with ease.

With a generous main compartment and interior pocket, the tote features plenty of room to hold personal items like your phone, wallet, snacks, notebook, and more. The snap closure and longer handles allow for throwing over your shoulder when on the go.

Standout Design

It's not just functionality that has made the Basquiat tote so popular, the iconic design itself featuring Basquiat's famous motifs and elements makes this bag a true standout.

The all-over design is printed directly onto the natural cotton canvas, popping with the vivid colors of Basquiat's street art including his signature crown motif. One side features the distinctive face motif common in many of Basquiat's paintings. There are fun repeated words like "Pow" and "Boom" used often by Basquiat, almost like street art graffiti stamped right on the bag.

This iconic collaboration tote fuses Basquiat's avant-garde style with a bag that becomes a wearable canvas celebrating one of the 20th century's most famous artists. The vibrant colors and unpredictability make this an accessory that adds art and interest to any outfit.

Tote Bag Uses

Beyond just looking cool, the versatile Basquiat tote is perfect for carrying around daily essentials for work, school, travel and everyday tasks.

Work Bag

The cotton canvas construction makes this bag lightweight yet able to hold everything you need to commute to the office or school. With room for your laptop, notebook, wallet, makeup bag, water bottle, packed lunch and more, it fits all your 9-to-5 needs.

Beach & Pool Bag

Made from durable cotton canvas with a waterproof reinforcement, the Basquiat tote is well-equipped for beach and pool days. The snap closure keeps your belongings safely inside while the fabric helps your items stay dry.

Travel Carry-On

The Basquiat tote is the perfect airplane carry-on or overnight bag alternative to plain duffle bags. With plenty of room for travel essentials, internal pockets to stay organized and a durable washable fabric, this artsy bag is built for jet-setting adventures.

Gym Bag

Why carry around a boring old gym bag when you can rock your Basquiat tote? With room for workout gear, shoes, towel, wallet, lock and toiletries, this art tote pulls double duty for hitting the gym in style.

Diaper Bag Alternative

The casual vibe yet ample storage make the Basquiat tote an awesome baby bag option for new moms. Fitting multiple diapers, wipes, bottles, changes of baby clothes and your own daily items, this durable tote carries all your parenting supply needs in an stylish way.

Caring for Your Tote

To keep your Typo x Basquiat tote looking vibrant and well-loved for a long time, follow these care tips:

Machine Wash Cold

While the cotton canvas is durable, you can toss your tote in the washing machine as needed to wash away dirt and stains. Wash on a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

Line Dry Only

To prevent heat damage to the fabric and maintain the colors, always line dry your Basquiat tote bag rather than putting it in the dryer. Hang to dry completely before using again.

Spot Clean Often

For spills and marks between washes, spot clean the fabric promptly with a damp cloth and mild soap. This prevents build up of stains over time.

Use Bag Insert

Consider using a lightweight bag insert or organizers to help the tote hold its shape and to protect items inside from moisture. Bonus is it also helps keep the lining clean!

Store Properly

When not in use, store your Basquiat tote bag stuffed with tissue paper and in a fabric bag to prevent dust build up on the fabric.

By caring for your Typo x Basquiat bag properly, you can enjoy this wearable art statement for years before it starts fading!

FAQs

What company makes the Basquiat tote bag?

The Basquiat tote bag is a collaboration between the Australian stationary and accessories brand Typo and the estate of late artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Typo worked with Basquiat's estate to create a collection featuring the artist's most iconic artwork and motifs.

What material is the Typo x Basquiat tote bag made from?

The Typo x Basquiat tote is constructed from 100% natural cotton canvas, making it durable yet lightweight. It features a reinforced bottom for added strength and snap button closure on top.

Is the Basquiat artwork printed or painted on the bag?

The vibrant Basquiat artwork and motifs on the tote bag are directly printed onto the cotton canvas material using a high quality printing process. So they won't crack or fade over time like painted bags.

Can you machine wash the Basquiat tote bag?

Yes, you can safely machine wash the cotton canvas Typo x Basquiat tote bag on a delicate, cold cycle setting and then line dry. Avoid hot water or putting it in the dryer to prevent damage.