Roy Lichtenstein, born on October 27, 1923, in Manhattan, and died on September 29, 1997, is one of the major figures of the American pop art movement. His artistic career, infused with the aesthetics of advertising, popular imagery, and comics, redefined the boundaries of modern art.

Lichtenstein was born into an upper-middle-class Jewish family. His mother, Beatrice Werner, was an accomplished pianist, while his father, Milton Lichtenstein, worked as a real estate agent. After attending the Franklin School for Boys in Manhattan, he developed his interest in art and design during his leisure time, influenced notably by visits to the Apollo Theater in Harlem.

In 1940, Lichtenstein enrolled at Ohio State University, interrupting his studies during World War II to serve in the U.S. Army. Upon his return, he resumed his studies and taught drawing at Ohio University.

Lichtenstein's early artistic endeavors shifted between cubism and expressionism. In 1960, he joined Rutgers University, where the influence of Allan Kaprow guided him towards proto-pop imagery. His career took off in 1961 with his first pop paintings, using images from comics and advertising techniques.

His iconic work, "Whaam!" (1963), inspired by a DC Comics comic, propelled him onto the global art scene. Lichtenstein continued to explore various series, including still lifes, entablatures, and depictions of the artist in his studio.

Outside of painting, Lichtenstein created sculptures in metal and plastic. His influence also extended to poster design, with specially crafted posters for his exhibitions.

In 1997, Roy Lichtenstein passed away from pneumonia at the New York University Medical Center, leaving behind a substantial artistic legacy. The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation, established in 1999, perpetuates his memory and impact on contemporary art.

Contact our expert for appraisals on works by Roy Lichtenstein.