Andy Warhol, 1928-1987 : commerce into art

Summary: A critical observer of American society, Andy Warhol (1928-1987) is recognized today as the most important exponent of the Pop Art movement. He overturned the traditional understanding of art and placed in its stead a concept that retracts the individuality of the artist. Warhol was a critical observer of American society, exposing his compatriots' consumerism in his paintings ( Campbell and Brillo series), as well as their fascination for sensational journalism. In 1963 Warhol founded his Factory in New York, literally a manufactory of ideas and work, which influenced film in the 1960s, published the influential magazine Interview in the late 1970s, and also produced Warhol's own artwork: Warhol conceived the idea, and a worker in his factory carried it out. The work remained (consciously) unsigned--a fact which nevertheless did nothing to diminish Warhol's reputation. He once complained that rich New Yorkers would willingly hang his Electric Chain in their living rooms--as long as its colours co-ordinated with the wallpaper and draperies.About the Series: Every book in TASCHEN's Basic Art Series features: a detailed chronological summary of the artist's life and work, covering the cultural and historical importance of the artist approximately 100 color illustrations with explanatory captions and a concise biography.