Synopsis: a balanced and in-depth look at the life and work of one of the most infamous names in modern art, Andy Warhol.

Review: ‘Andy Warhol’ by Isabel Kuhl is, as the title makes very clear, a book about a single artist.

 Warhol is often used as the main example when studying Pop Art, and this well-written and fascinating book details his life, his work and the context in which he lived and produced his art. The examples of his paintings and prints are full colour, and varied. As well as the usual ones we all recognise, such as the Soup Cans, there are lesser known photographs and some very good shots of his work in gallery spaces, which gives a new insight into the impact of the colours and shapes he was working with.

 This book would be a very valuable addition to a general Art library or sixth form study area, as it goes into the kind of depth that KS4 and KS5 pupils need. However, I would urge two notes of caution. Pop Art as a topic is a perennial favourite amongst both teachers and pupils. It can appear to be simple to do, but this is deceptive and much Pop Art-based project can end up being unfortunately rather shallow, colourful copying. A careful approach is needed to ensure the pupils understand the context in which Pop Art came about. The other issue is the over-reliance on one big ‘name’ – such as Warhol – which is to the detriment of many other Pop Artists. This book, on its own, wouldn’t be a useful stimulus or basis for a complete scheme of work.

 So, this is an interesting and lively book but if you have a limited budget, it would be better to look for a more comprehensive overview to Pop Art.

2008-01-06