Peter Saul
Birth Of Pop, 2005
Acrylic on canvas
168 × 188 cm
“Birth of Pop” is a unique tribute to Andy Warhol. The depiction of a distorted creature bearing the tripled head of Warhol is both kitschy and humorous in equal measure. In this work, Saul skillfully references Warhol’s iconic imagery and color palettes, infusing it with his distinctive signature style. Venus, a primary artistic figure throughout centuries of art history, is transformed into the canonical representation of the contemporary art world.
“This picture was inspired by the academic 19th century French artist Cabanel. His 1852 version of ‘Birth of Venus’ was one of my favorite pictures when I visited Paris. In my version I wanted to modernize the subject, bring it up to date. The intention was to use my imagination, not to insult Cabanel, Warhol or Venus.” – Peter Saul
Exhibitions:
Peter Saul. You Better Call Saul. Gary Tatintsian Gallery, 2016
Publications:
Catalogue ‘Peter Saul. You Better Call Saul’. Gary Tatintsian Gallery, 2016. pp. 10-11, 13, 14-15
