I am sitting on my sofa writing this article with my dog snuggled next to me, the fire roaring and the warm white Christmas tree lights twinkling… there is no doubt Christmas is almost here!
When I think of Christmas and the artists that I enjoy, I didn’t put Andy Warhol at the top of my list, however after much enjoyable research, it seems that Andy Warhol really loved Christmas. In fact, a substantial portion of the legendary pop artist’s oeuvre explores this seasonal theme, and come to think of it, this might not be out of character.
Togetherness and friendship were very important to Warhol he always loved the chance to celebrate. Warhol’s Factory parties have become modern myths. As Warhol himself proclaimed “I have Social Disease. I have to go out every night. If I stay home one night, I start spreading rumours to my dogs.”
Warhol was also a deeply religious man—an aspect of the artist’s life that is often overlooked. As the son of Slovakian immigrants, Warhol was raised as a Catholic. In1986 Warhol produced a screen print depicting The Last Supper. Jessica Beck, assistant curator of the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh said the artist’s religious works were “under-researched compared to the Pop paintings of Campbell’s Soup or Coca-Cola.”
Our gallery artist Dom Pattinson freely acknowledges his debt to other artists, among them Andy Warhol and Damian Hirst, but rather than emulate them, he riffs on their signature subjects or stylistic quirks, playing with repetition and homage, butterflies and skulls. His subversive humour is tempered by a gently mocking tone and a uniquely charming approach to life. His spectacular visual statements are thought-provoking, entertaining and absolutely delightful.
Dom has enjoyed a string of sell out shows all over the world. He has a huge celebrity following including Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and George Clooney. His big name collectors come from all walks of life and highlight the breadth of his appeal – from millionaire socialite Caroline Stanbury and TV personality Davina McCall to neurosurgeon and broadcaster Sanjay Gupta and musician Liam Gallagher.
In New York where he has painted a mural on the 69th floor of the World Trade Centre and was recently commissioned by Ted Baker to create some work for their flagship store on 5th Avenue. He is the subject of a BBC documentary which is currently in the making – watch this space.
Although he creates his invigorating works on canvas, Dom is a street artist at heart. As a student, he spent time living in the then Soviet Union and was struck by the power and impact of the propaganda art which was so prevalent wherever he went. He was also deeply affected by the wall murals in Northern Ireland where passions were running high and activists were creating raw and emotional street art to express their views. It was not the specifics of the politics or messages that impressed and influenced him, but the way these artists understood how to create a dialogue with the viewer, and ultimately to offer them “a more positive outlook on a world that is in turmoil.”
To see more of Dom’s work or see work from our other Pop Artists such as Lhouette, Dan Baldwin and David Shillinglaw please come and visit our Shenfield Gallery. We have such a diverse, interesting and captivating collection of art on display from emerging to established artists. If you don’t feel like braving the cold, why not visit our website from the comfort of your sofa and get inspiration for that space on your wall.
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year!
Written by Soo Turner for Essex Life Magazine
To read more about Dom Pattinson and view his available work, CLICK HERE
