MAC Cosmetics pays homage to artist Jean-Michel Basquiat with new collection

The Estée Lauder Companies-owned make-up brand’s new six-strong collection pays homage to the New York artist’s legacy and has been launched ahead of an upcoming Netflix documentary, Jean-Miche

MAC Cosmetics has launched a new make-up collection inspired by the style of late American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Basquiat – who rose to prominence as a street graffiti tagger in New York, US, and died aged 27 in 1988 – became famous for his neo-expressionist style, defined by emotion-led and figurative art with rough brushwork.

The six-strong collection pays homage to his legacy and has been launched ahead of an unrelated upcoming Netflix documentary based on Basquiat’s life, called Jean-Michel.

MAC Cosmetics’ Basquiat-inspired collection includes MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick (US$35) in shades Ruby Woo-ster and Bowery Brown, along with Oil Effect Eye Paint ($30) in Oil Slick, Basquiat Blue and 1982 shades.

Also featured in the range is Pastel Painting Eye + Face Chalk ($30) in Royal Blueprint and Everlasting, a chalk-like powder that delivers buildable colour for eyes and face.

Plus, Pigment ($29), a special edition concentrated loose colour powder used for a wash of colour or a more intense look.

Rounding off the collection is Basquiat Artist Brush Set ($120) and the Famous Bag ($50), a special edition bag designed to hold make-up tools.

The full range is available to buy on maccosmetics.com.

The collection follows the Estée Lauder Companies-owned brand appointing Chappell Roan as the face of its 2026 Viva Glam campaign in May.

The American singer-songwriter, who is also a Brand Ambassador for the make-up company, fronts the charitable initiative this year, which donates 100% of sales of its Viva Glam lipsticks and lip glosses to organisations championing equality globally.

Cosmetics Business has contacted MAC Cosmetics for comment.