At the weekend we went to see Lichtenstein: A Retrospective, the immensely popular blockbuster exhibition at the Tate Modern. Since its opening in February it’s been top of the ‘must-sees’ in London and shows no signs of slowing down.
The exhibition as a whole takes you on an interesting journey through the world and work of Roy Lichtenstein, one of the most renowned artists of the 20th century for his contribution to the pop art movement. Most famed for his pieces dealing with war and romance, the American artist took images from comics and edited them in his own way to challenge the clichéd gender roles perpetuated by the mass media. These iconic pieces are recognised as central to the Pop Art movement and an impressive selection are displayed in Room 4 of the exhibition, ‘War and Romance’’.
Roy Lichtenstein, Oh, Jeff…I Love You, Too…But… 1964
Collection Simonyi © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein/DACS 2012
Lichtenstein’s iconic style and well-known works of art make up a considerable share of the exhibition, however there are some somewhat surprising rooms which shed light on other lesser known work. For example, one of the last rooms displays Lichetenstein’s later work which is heavily influenced by Chinese art. Large, majestic landscape pieces, created through the application of dots, explore the relation between nature and man. In contrast to the comic-strip pieces of his earlier work, it’s interesting to see this later toned down, atmospheric landscape work.
A big, blockbuster exhibition from the word go, Lichtenstein: A Retrospective is a fun, thought-provoking and enjoyable exhibition for all. We definitely recommend. Need we say – booking in advance is an absolute must.
Roy Lichtenstein, Whaam! 1963
Tate. © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein/DACS 2012
If you’re coming to stay and fancy going to see the exhibition, email the lovely Concierge team and they’ll help you with tickets (concierge@flemings.co.uk)
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Handy to know:
Lichtenstein: A Retrospective @ Tate Modern
21 Feb – 27 May
£14 (£12.20/£7 concs)
BOOK IN ADVANCE!
