Marilyn, from the Marilyn Monroe (Marilyn) portfolio

1967

American, 1928 - 1987

Warhol understood that a celebrity portrait can function like a trademark -- an image that is iconic, and instantly recognizable. This was the opposite approach to traditional portraiture, which aimed to convey a likeness as well as a sitter's character. Warhol was especially fascinated with the fleetingness of celebrity and the special mystique that arises from a combination of tragedy and fame. The ten-print portfolio, which he made five years after Monroe's death, shows the star as a glamorous pop icon, and the non-naturalistic colors emphasize the artifice of make-up and hair-dye, producing a face that is carefully constructed.

Screenprint on paper

36 x 36in. (91.4 x 91.4cm)

Bequest of Kathryn L. Skinner

2004.119

Photo: Paul Macapia

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Pop Departures, Oct. 9, 2014 - Jan. 11, 2015. Text by Catharina Manchanda, et al. No cat. no., p. 103, reproduced p. 45.

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