Podcast Summary: "The Life and Death of Artist Michael Stewart"

Podcast Information:

• Title: All Of It
• Host: Alison Stewart
• Episode: The Life and Death of Artist Michael Stewart
• Release Date: March 13, 2025
• Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators about the what and why of their work.

Introduction

In this compelling episode of WNYC's "All Of It," host Alison Stewart explores the tragic story of Michael Stewart, an aspiring artist, model, and DJ whose untimely death in 1983 sent shockwaves through New York City's vibrant East Village creative community. The episode features insights from Elon Green, author of the new book "The Man Nobody Killed: Life, Death and the Art of Michael Stewart's New York," who provides an in-depth look into Stewart’s life, the circumstances surrounding his death, and its profound impact on the art world.

Research and Context

Elon Green shares his meticulous research process, which began with poring over every newspaper article related to Michael Stewart and conducting interviews with living witnesses, friends, and colleagues. At [02:14], Green explains, "It began with just reading every single newspaper account I could find and from there it was trying to find every single living witness, attorney, friend, loved one of Michael Stewart." His goal was to illuminate Stewart's life in New York, delving into his interactions within the East Village scene, including his time at the Pyramid Club and connections with prominent figures like Jean Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring.

Michael Stewart's Role and Personality

Despite not achieving the same fame as some of his contemporaries, Michael Stewart was a significant presence in the East Village. Green describes him at [04:22], "He was visible, both because of where he worked, but also because of how he looked. And not to belabor the point, but he was gorgeous." Stewart's quiet and sensitive nature set him apart in a bustling artistic community. He was known for his ability to connect with others, demonstrating a unique charm that endeared him to many within the artistic circles.

The Arrest and Police Interaction

On September 15, 1983, Michael Stewart was arrested by Transit Authority Police for allegedly tagging a subway station. The arrest quickly escalated, resulting in Stewart being beaten by the officers. At [10:20], Green discusses the arresting officer, John Kostick, noting, "He was a young man at the time, I think he'd been on the job for maybe a year and a half. And it was a very, it was a hard job."

Stewart's arrest highlighted the tense relationship between graffiti artists and law enforcement during that era. Green explains at [06:07], "The powers that be... felt that [graffiti] was tarnishing a beautiful city." The Transit Authority Police, described as "the red-headed stepchild of the system" at [09:30], operated under challenging conditions with limited resources, often patrolsing solo and facing high-stress situations.

Hospitalization and Cause of Death

After the arrest, Michael Stewart was taken to Bellevue Hospital in critical condition. Despite the emergency efforts to restart his heart, Stewart never regained consciousness and died thirteen days later. At [14:16], Green recounts the hospital staff's immediate realization of the violence inflicted upon him: "They immediately realized that there had been... physical violence inflicted on him."

The initial statement from Chief Medical Examiner Elliot Gross attributed Stewart's death to cardiac arrest pending further study. This ambiguous declaration led to widespread skepticism and perceptions of inconsiderate handling of the case. Green clarifies at [17:40], "So what I would say is that he generally did not actually make inconsistent statements, but they were widely interpreted that way."

Legal Proceedings and Trial

The legal aftermath of Stewart's death was fraught with controversy and frustration. A grand juror, Ronald Fields, became a pivotal figure in the trial. Green describes Fields' actions at [19:37], "He gets a hold of press releases from the chief medical examiner's office... and he keeps doing things that get him upbraided by the judge." Fields' relentless pursuit of transparency ultimately led to the acquittal of the police officers involved, a result that was both unsurprising at the time and yet deeply disappointing for those seeking justice.

All the officers involved were acquitted, a verdict that Green notes at [21:49], "they all ended up acquitted, which would not be shocking now, and it certainly wasn't back then."

Impact on the Artistic Community

Michael Stewart's death had a profound impact on the East Village's tight-knit artistic community. Artists like Jean Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring were deeply affected, channeling their grief and frustration into their work. Green explains at [22:48], "Basquiat immediately begins... drawing skulls on the floor. Keith Haring eventually does a painting about Michael." These artistic responses underscored the community's collective trauma and galvanized activists to demand accountability and systemic change.

Michael Stewart's Legacy and Book's Message

Elon Green hopes that readers of his book will gain a deeper understanding of Michael Stewart's potential and the systemic failures that prevented him from fully realizing his talents. At [24:38], Green reflects, "I want people to take away sort of what didn't happen to him and what wasn't allowed to happen to him."

Furthermore, Green emphasizes the lessons learned from Stewart's story, highlighting both the progress made and the issues that persist. He states at [24:38], "I think I want people to understand both how much has changed and how much has not changed."

Conclusion

In "The Life and Death of Artist Michael Stewart," Alison Stewart and Elon Green provide a thorough examination of a pivotal moment in New York City's cultural history. Through detailed research and heartfelt storytelling, the episode sheds light on Michael Stewart's life, the circumstances of his death, and its lasting impact on the art community. The narrative not only honors Stewart's memory but also serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles for justice and recognition within marginalized communities.

Notable Quotes:

• "He was visible, both because of where he worked, but also because of how he looked. And not to belabor the point, but he was gorgeous." — Elon Green [04:22]

• "He was quiet and sensitive and he didn't talk unless it was necessary, and that was not the way." — Elon Green [05:05]

• "I think that was just the way it was... a genuine cover up." — Elon Green [15:09]

• "I want people to take away sort of what didn't happen to him and what wasn't allowed to happen to him." — Elon Green [24:38]

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the podcast episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the full segment.