From the Street to a Stamp

Art director Antonio Alcalá has designed dozens of stamps, but the 2025 Love stamp holds a special place in his heart. Showcasing a 1985 drawing by the late artist Keith Haring, the project is especially meaningful to Alcalá, who had a chance encounter with the contemporary artist in his early 20s. 

One day in Manhattan, Alcalá spotted Haring gliding by on a skateboard. Mustering his nerve, he approached the artist, kicking off what he calls a classic “fanboy” moment. Haring didn’t just chat — he sketched a Batman-like figure on Alcalá’s backpack, which he also signed and dated. Decades later, that backpack remains one of Alcalá’s most treasured possessions, carefully tucked away in an archival box, only making appearances when he shares this unforgettable tale. 

The spark of an idea

Alcalá explains that the idea of featuring a Haring drawing on a Love stamp goes back years, stemming from his work on concepts for a stamp honoring the artist himself. Although that project never came to fruition, the idea was revived when Bill Gicker, former director of Stamp Services, suggested using Haring’s artwork for the Love series. 

The resulting design showcases two figures reaching for a vibrant red heart, framed by Haring’s signature thick black lines, which convey movement. 

“The figures look happy and joyous, almost as if they’re dancing, while the heart radiates love,” Alcalá says. “The non-specificity of the figures also allows a variety of people to see themselves in this stamp: partners getting married or celebrating an anniversary, siblings sending each other a heartfelt greeting, or even party planners setting a positive tone for their event.”

From subway chalk artist to global art icon

Raised in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, Haring moved to New York City in 1978 to study at the School of Visual Arts. He was immediately fascinated by the street art he saw everywhere. As a budding artist, he created hundreds of white-chalk drawings on the black paper pasted over expired subway ads.

He went on to produce paintings, sculptures, commercial products, and murals around the world, all driven by his desire to make art a part of everyday life. His playful, energetic work — often featuring figures and symbols like babies, barking dogs, and UFOs — radiated energy and joy, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Influenced by the progressive, multiracial, and politically active gay community, he used his public art to address social and political issues, including drug use and AIDS. His work is rich in meaning, speaking to people from all backgrounds.

“I like the simplicity, freedom, and energy in his work,” says Alcalá. “I also appreciate the universal appeal of much of his work. It’s mostly positive and meant to speak to everyone.”

Art for everyone

Haring opened the Pop Shop in Manhattan to make his art accessible to the masses. Believing that art should be for everyone, he sought to share his work with as many people as possible — an idea his foundation continues to champion today. This spirit of accessibility and inclusivity resonated deeply with Alcalá as he created the stamp.