The influence of Andy Warhol. He is indisputably one of the most renowned and respected artists of the 21st century. Having been credited for the greatest contemporary works in human history, the modern artist has been at the forefront of one of the biggest transformations in art as we know it.
From the snobbish and rigid form that art took thanks to the centuries of development it had under the guidance of classic artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent Van Gogh, Andy was at the center of a huge turnaround for the entire art scene as people began to flock to the idea of a more formless and “free” shape of art that continues to develop over time.
The American artist was the perfect formula of popularity and artistic influence that rarely ever happens. Being able to generate enough clout and at the same time develop his style into something so unique that it helped spawn an art movement, the evolution of contemporary art as a literal game-changer was almost inevitable.
One could even say that Andy was a pop culture icon. Relishing in one of his most recognized art styles, Pop Art, which uses elements from modern culture and advertising to create one-of-a-kind artworks that never fail to catch the eye and attention of many, Andy has always redefined the industry for the better.
Beginning his artistic journey at the young age of eight years old when he was bed-ridden from chorea and was encouraged to take drawing lessons for the meantime, Andy completed his artistic maturity when he became an illustrator for the prestigious Glamour magazine.
Taking up the role, Andy had indirectly placed himself as the leading figure of the Pop Art movement which was gaining traction at the time. Focusing his art style on a masterful blend of photography and other digital techniques, Andy enjoyed using commercial products and popular personalities for his pieces. Predictably enough, everybody also started liking what Andy had to offer.
His key contribution to art is bridging the long-standing gap that stood between the presumed sophistication of traditional art and the more public-friendly approach of modern art. With Andy’s preferences for style and class mixed together with relatable themes, he effectively established Pop Art as not only an acceptable art style but also a respectable one that everybody can get into without going through the imaginary hurdles that traditional art previously had.
From his eccentric portrait of celebrity icon Marilyn Monroe to a graphical representation of the evolution of Campbell soup cans, Andy always had a knack for choosing the right elements that click with people and the appropriate methods to come along with it.
Jumping headfirst into the year’s trends such as being one of the first personalities to incorporate digital art creation, Andy was a pioneer who was never afraid to take chances and opportunities when they present themselves. And with the legacy he has left since his death in 1987, it is evident that his technique and influence are truly legendary.
Check out some of my Andy Warhol inspired artwork.