We’ve news for those who’ve always been fascinated by the work of Andy Warhol (think iconic Marilyn Munroe Diptych which hangs in the Tate Modern in London) and Keith Haring (think pop art that emerged from the New York City graffiti subculture).
Gormleys Fine Art is bringing an exhibition of works by four of the world’s most celebrated pop artists (Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Keith Haring and Robert Indiana) to Dublin.
Showcased over two floors, the exhibition will feature a wide range of pieces from each artist, including Warhol’s iconic silkscreen portraits, Lichtenstein’s monumental ‘The Den’, Haring’s bold graphic designs, and Indiana’s iconic LOVE artworks.
The star attraction will be Warhol’s 1981 Superman, a print from his ‘Myths’ portfolio finished with diamond dust, which is priced at €290,000.
The series showcases a variety of fictional characters, from Mickey Mouse to Uncle Sam, viewed by Warhol as essential components of American culture.
Grace Kelly, which is one of his signature and most sought-after celebrity portraits and is valued at €220,000, will also be featured.
“Pop art had a major impact on the art world, as it challenged traditional notions of what art should be and who it should be for,” said Oliver Gormley of Gormleys.
“It continues to be an important influence on contemporary art and culture, with many artists still drawing inspiration from its themes and techniques. Art has proven to be a fantastic investment, and we have tried to curate this collection with a range of prices in mind.
We have seen the values of pieces by these artists rise, and Warhol in particular is a great example with a recent 30% increase in value. We have curated this show to incorporate pieces across price ranges, with entry level pieces included.”
Six works by Keith Haring will be displayed, including four from his most loved and recognised series Pop Shop, which depict the artist’s signature style with his bold graphic iconography, combined with vibrant colours.
Several of Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE works, originally commissioned by MOMA in 1965, also feature.
Of note in this Indiana collection is Book Of Love, which is a complete set of 12 signed screen prints with accompanying poems, worth €190,000 or individually from €16,000.
In addition to showcasing the artists’ individual styles and techniques, the exhibition will explore the historical and cultural context in which they worked, highlighting the ways in which their art reflected and commented on the society of their time.
Pop art emerged in the 1950s and 1960s as a reaction to the seriousness and elitism of abstract expressionism. These artists sought to create art that was accessible to a wider audience by incorporating imagery from popular culture, such as celebrities, advertisements, comic books and consumer products.
“This is a rare opportunity to see the works of these iconic American pop artists in one place and to gain a deeper understanding of their significance and impact on the art world,” added Mr Gormley.
It is also interesting to note that Warhol and Haring formed a unique friendship and bond during the 1980’s New York art scene. Both were introverts, craved acceptance and were openly gay/ bisexual at a time when most of the LGBT community kept their sexuality behind closed doors. Warhol first acted as a mentor to Haring and later they collaborated closely together. They shared the same philosophy on art; to break down the barriers between high and low art and make art that is accessible to all.
The exhibition will be on view in their Dublin gallery, from 25th February – 18th March and is free to the public.
Be sure to mark your diary!