Andy Warhol, Santa Claus, from Myths Series, 1981

Artist: Andy Warhol (1928 - 1987)
Title:Santa Claus, from Myths Series, 1981
Reference:F&S II.266
Series:Myths Series, 1981
Medium:Color silkscreen with diamond dust on Lenox Museum Board
Image Size:38 in x 38 in (96.5 cm x 96.5 cm)
Sheet Size:38 in x 38 in (96.5 cm x 96.5 cm)
Edition:Numbered from the edition of 200 in pencil in the lower right margin; There were also 30 AP, 5 PP, and 5 EPs.
Signature:This work is hand-signed by Andy Warhol (Pennsylvania, 1928 - New York, 1987) in pencil in lower right margin.
ID #w-8082

Historical Description

Andy Warhol, Santa Claus, from Myths Series, 1981

Created in 1981 Andy Warhol Santa Claus, from Myths Series, this color silkscreen with diamond dust on Lenox Museum Board is hand-signed by Andy Warhol (Pennsylvania, 1928 - New York, 1987) in pencil in lower right margin. Numbered from the edition of 200 in pencil in the lower right margin; There were also 30 AP, 5 PP, and 5 EPs.

Andy Warhol Myths 1981:

During the 1980s, Warhol embraced the notion of art as a commodity, exploring the intersections between art, commerce, and popular culture. He was intrigued by the influence of mass media and the proliferation of celebrity culture, which led him to create artworks that celebrated and critiqued these phenomena simultaneously. The "Myth" series was an embodiment of this exploration, as Warhol delved into the realm of iconic figures, employing techniques that captured the essence of celebrity and consumerism.

Warhol's approach to art was inherently influenced by his background in commercial illustration and advertising. He understood the power of visual communication and the importance of capturing attention in a crowded marketplace. In this sense, his art incorporated elements that could be interpreted as salesy, aiming to attract viewers and provoke a response. The bold and recognizable imagery of the "Myth" series, featuring iconic figures such as Superman, Mickey Mouse, and Santa Claus, tapped into the collective consciousness and immediate recognition associated with these cultural symbols.

Warhol's intention in creating the "Myth" series was multi-faceted. On one hand, it can be interpreted as a commentary on the pervasive influence of consumer culture and the idolization of celebrities. By depicting these iconic figures repeatedly, Warhol highlighted the ways in which popular icons are perpetuated and mythologized in society, thereby questioning the authenticity and manufactured nature of fame.

On the other hand, the "Myth" series also functioned as a reflection of Warhol's own position within the art market. By creating highly recognizable and marketable works, he was able to capitalize on the allure of celebrity culture and consumer demand. This approach, which can be seen as salesy, aligned with Warhol's understanding of the art market and the need for artists to navigate the commercial aspects of the art world.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Andy Warhol Santa Claus, from Myths Series, 1981 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work).

1. Feldman, Frayda and Jörg Schellmann. Andy Warhol Prints, A Catalogue Raisonné, 1989. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. II. 295.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work

About the Framing:
Andy Warhol screenprint Giant Panda from the Endangered Species, 1983 is framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, presented in a complimentary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.