Andy Warhol (1928-1987) created some of the most iconic images of the twentieth century, securing his place as one of the most influential artists in history. As a prominent figure in the Pop Art movement, Warhol was deeply fascinated by the allure of fame, popular culture, consumerism, and mass production. His artistic prowess extended across various visual media whilst challenging preconceived notions about fine art. In doing so he blurred the lines between art and popular culture.
From early studies in the 1940s to his work with leading magazines and major brands in the 1950s, this exhibition explores how Warhol successfully moved beyond commercial illustration and into fine art. The evolution of his signature style through the 1960s and 1970s is reflected in his obsession with famous icons, advertising and media culture. The celebrity portraits of Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and The Beatles, to name but a few, juxtapose iconic American symbols including the dollar sign, Levi 501 jeans and Brillo pads.
Andy Warhol also explores the artist's confrontation with his own mortality following his near-fatal shooting in 1968. This exhibition highlights works that incorporate symbols of Warhol’s fixation on death, including guns, skulls, and war-related themes. Using Polaroid and 35mm cameras, Warhol documented the fleeting world around him, capturing candid self-portraits as well as images of friends and celebrities, offering a personal insight into his life as he sought to preserve moments and people in defiance of time’s passage.
Every Wednesday morning, 10.30am–12.30pm, visit the exhibition without the requirement of a Day Pass with our 'Pay What You Wish' initiative. Available to all - no minimum donation.
About ARTIST ROOMS
ARTIST ROOMS presents the work of international artists in solo exhibitions drawn from a national touring collection jointly owned by Tate and National Galleries of Scotland. Its programme reaches audiences across the UK and is developed through local partnerships.
The ARTIST ROOMS national collection and programme is managed in partnership by Tate and National Galleries of Scotland with the support of Art Fund, Henry Moore Foundation and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and Creative Scotland.
