A new reading of Warhol presents his life and work in the context of contemporary concerns, emphasizing his continued relevance in the digital age.

This stunning hardback exhibition catalogue offers up new insight into Andy Warhol’s expanded art practice, presenting his life and work within the context of his time, in a way that connects to contemporary concerns. With illustrations of familiar and lesser-known aspects of Warhol’s career, an interview with former Factory insider, Bob Colacello, and new research, archival materials and creative writing, it accompanies Tate Modern’s 2020 major retrospective of the artist’s career.

As an underground art star, Andy Warhol (1928–1987) emerged as the antidote to the prevalent abstract expressionist style of ‘50s America. He introduced popular everyday subjects into his practice and openly acknowledged the wide-ranging influences on his work. Throughout his career, his forays into advertising, fashion, film, TV and music videos marked a fascination with mainstream popular culture.

Looking at his background as an immigrant, ideas of death and religion, and his queer perspective, it explores his limitless ambition to push the traditional boundaries of painting, sculpture, film and music, and reveals Warhol as an artist who both succeeded and failed in equal measure – an artist who embraced the establishment while cavorting with the underground. It highlights Warhol’s knowing flirtation with the world of celebrity alongside his socially engaged collaborations and advocacy of alternative lifestyles.

About the Authors
Gregor Muir is director of collection, Tate Modern. Yilmaz Dziewior is director of Museum Ludwig, Cologne. Kenneth Brummel is associate curator, Modern Art, Art Gallery of Ontario. Stephan Diederich is curator, Museum Ludwig, Cologne. Diedrich Diederichsen is a music journalist and cultural critic. Olivia Laing is a novelist and cultural critic. Fiontan Moran is assistant curator, Tate Modern. Charlie Porter is a fashion journalist. Martine Syms is an artist. 

2021
Publisher: Rizzoli
Hardcover, 224 pages
8.75" x 0.88" x 11.36"
ISBN 9780847869251