EXHIBITION EXTENDED - One Hundred Warhols - from Consumerism and Commissions to Communist Politics.
As I was admiring the many wonderful works of Warhol’s retrospective at Halcyon Gallery, I asked myself, ‘why is it that Pop changes the original?’ Now reflecting on this statement I think it’s simply what Warhol does, and this is what undoubtedly makes him the Master of Pop. A can of soup, the epitome of beauty that is Marilyn, wildlife creatures and a classical composer are all subjects of Warhol’s creations, yet how they are depicted is not necessarily how one would have initially conceived them.
Who would have thought that Campbell’s soup was art? Who would want to portray Marilyn with hot pink eyelids? What Warhol began in the sixties was innovative and what he created in the 80s gives us an insight into his interests and passions, not just what he was commissioned on or an image of commodity culture. Seeing these works is what intrigued me the most.
The Endangered Species series was captivating! Each individual canvas has so much character but they are equally in unison. The colours are bold and beautiful where the canvases are striking to the eye; however, the look in the animal’s eyes conveys vulnerability, that which is pure and unjust. Such different species but with a common factor, they are endangered. Can this speak about more of Warhol’s work? Warhol loved consumer culture yet his work does depict that we are wrapped up and swallowed up in it. It determines our everyday and our actions, much like how poachers affect the everyday and actions of endangered wildlife.
Moreover, in Cowboys and Indians Warholesque qualities can be seen in some of the characteristics of his subjects, such as their hair and shadowing of the face, but the subject’s gaze being turned away from the viewer and the Native American symbols are not recognisable traits of Warhol’s style. This juxtaposition of qualities makes you want to examine the works closer as they are not a “typical” Warhol piece.
The identifiable works in the show include Campbell’s soups can, however, they have been specifically curated which makes their presence in the exhibition special. The series is displayed as it was originally about 54 years ago, at Blum’s Ferus Gallery in Los Angeles. When you step up into the room it is as if you have stepped back into the 60’s when this contemporary movement was brand new. It is nostalgic and exciting, and although over 50 years has passed Warhol’s work still feels current.
It has been announced May 12th that the show has been extended to June 26th. We highly recommend a visit.
Image credit in order of appearance:
Marilyn 1967, Andy Warhol
Campbell's Soup I, 1968 Andy Warhol
WARHOL ICONS runs until 26th June 2016 at Halcyon Gallery
Lily Bennett
