Bad Boys 2 is a 1986 screenprint on paper by American Pop artist Keith Haring. This print is one in a series also entitled Bad Boys, exploring sexuality and queerness in a society that considers both to be taboo subjects.

In contrast with his signature geometric and codified style, Bad Boys 2 captures Haring in a state of flow. Calligraphic line work depicts with grace a figure grasping themself in an intimate nature, still partially dressed as if caught in a moment of active decision. The ink heavy brushstrokes conveys an immediacy, as if still wet after drawing. Haring’s choice to employ an organic style to Bad Boys is an artistic whisper of what could not be said overtly at the time. As an openly gay artist, Haring championed queer conversation through art, creating a space for the LGBTQ+ community to connect with his own experience and defying societal expectations of secrecy around these topics, especially during the division and advancing concern surrounding the AIDS epidemic.

Simply by calling the series “Bad Boys”, Haring provides a powerful commentary on the pervasive discrimination experienced by marginalized sexual and gender identities. For Haring, Bad Boys 2 is an extension of his tenacious socio-political activism as well as his core identity, and for society, it is a lasting testament to the powers of art and authenticity.