On this day February 22 1987 legendary artist Andy Warhol passed away at the age of 58 due to complications from gallbladder surgery. Warhol was a pioneering figure in pop art, blending commercial imagery with fine art to create some of the most iconic and recognizable works of the 20th century.
Warhol’s art often explored themes of celebrity, consumerism, and mass production, with his famous pieces including Campbell’s Soup Cans, Marilyn Diptych, and portraits of Elvis Presley and Mick Jagger. His innovative use of silkscreen printing revolutionized the art world, making his work both accessible and instantly recognizable.
Even decades after his passing Warhol’s influence remains strong, and his pieces continue to command record-breaking prices at auctions. His 1963 painting Silver Car Crash (Double Disaster) sold for $105.4 million, making it one of the most expensive artworks ever sold.
80s insight: Andy Warhol’s studio The Factory was a hub for artists, musicians, and celebrities, attracting figures like David Bowie, Lou Reed, and The Velvet Underground, whom he helped launch into stardom.