A copycat, a fraud and a fake. These are the words I used to describe Andy Warhol if he was bought up in conversation, that is until my eyes were opened–opened to the world of a man in search of beauty. Warhol found it at every turn.
I went with a group of friends to the “Warhol Live” exhibit at the Frist. Though my expectations were mediocre, I was hoping to be shocked by controversy, and it found me.
“Warhol Live” gave me a fly on the wall perspective to Warhol’s perceptions. Andy found beauty in the inconspicuous realities of life: the science of sleep, the passion of a kiss, even the mystery of the empire state building. Reality was Warhol’s canvas, and he loved to throw it back into the face of the beholder.
In this exhibit, enchantment and boldness was discovered at every turn. As I made my way through a maze of film clips, vibrant paintings,and avant-garde installations, I realized the visual imprint that Warhol had on generations.
My stark change of opinion on Warhol came just in time, I would say. He has made a huge imprint on the face of society. The argument has always been there–valid, solid. I had just not taken the time to regard it. I asked some Lipscomb students who came with me to the museum what impact he had on the art world. The following is their audio commentary on Andy Warhol and his impacts. Enjoy, take it in and open your mind.
The Frist is consistently opening eyes with new exhibits. Showing right now is “A Divine Light,” a classical collection of Northern Renaissance paintings.
A huge contrast to the former Warhol exhibit, “A Divine Light” holds its own with brilliant depictions of the madonna and child. It is a global collection with old masters from Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Be sure to check it out. The exhibit runs from Sept. 9, 2011 to Feb. 5, 2012. Remember college students get in free on Thursdays and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., so take advantage.