Most of us have used or heard the expression, “their 15 minutes are up.” Never have words been more applicable than in 2010. We may know who some of the Winter Olympic stars are today, but, in a few short weeks, their names may have escaped us. What about Octomom, Balloon Boy’s dad and the couple who snuck into the White House party?
Famous artist, Andy Warhol, was spot on when he so precisely predicted, “In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.” A phrase that will be synonymous with Warhol for eternity. On a recent Saturday afternoon, I entered The Modern Museum of Fort Worth with the exuberance and excitement of a 12-year-old girl heading to a Miley Cyrus concert. It had been months since it was announced that Andy Warhol’s final 10 years of work was coming to The Modern.
My favorite way to see an exhibit is on a guided tour. When you have a great docent, so much more is learned than just by reading the little cards hanging next to a piece of art. On that day, we once again were fortunate to be led by Barb P. Having Barb as your docent is like having Bobby Flay personally cook you a dinner at his signature restaurant. Then, come out, serve you and explain the history and rationale behind each dish. I consider Barb my “Art Sommelier.”
Warhol’s last 10 years were interesting, to say the least. From him being shot, to his TV show to his fascination with celebrity, there was a never a dull moment throughout the meandering of almost the entire second floor of The Modern. There were typical Warhol works that you are familiar and it is definitely worth the trip to see some of his later works, which he experimented with non-Warholian mediums and approaches.
Another lesser known Andy Warholism goes like this, “An artist is somebody who produces things that people don’t need to have.” This shouldn’t be a shock coming from Warhol. But, I’m going to have to disagree. And, much like Jack Nicholson’s character, Col. Nathan R. Jessep’s response in a Few Good Men, when getting cross-examined, Andy Warhol, whether it be in a gallery or a home... We want you on that wall! We need you on that wall!
Andy Warhol: The Last Decade runs through May 16. Complete exhibit information can be found at www.themodern.org.
