Underground art represents a wide-ranging and fluid field of artistic work which operates beyond the reach of established cultural institutions and commercial systems. Art forms described by this term defy traditional standards while stimulating intellectual engagement and critique of prevailing social, political or aesthetic frameworks. Underground art began to gain traction in the mid-20th century as it aligned with social upheavals like the countercultural movements throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The subversive and experimental characteristics of underground art make it successful through its extensive use of artistic freedom and unconventional mediums. Underground art rejects established norms while creating opportunities for marginalized voices and unconventional perspectives to be heard. Underground artists work at society's edge to challenge taboo subjects while questioning authority through their boundary-pushing creations. Jean-Michel Basquiat stands among the influential underground artists through his vibrant and expressive paintings that depicted urban life during his prominence in 1980s New York. The feminist art groups of the 1970s including the Guerrilla Girls used confrontational street art and public performances to fight against gender discrimination within the art industry. Underground art serves as a potent vehicle for cultural rebellion and artistic creativity by providing a stage for diverse voices to question mainstream norms. Artists and audiences remain inspired by its fearless and bold method of artistic expression.