Pop art pioneer Andy Warhol was a fascinating figure responsible for creating some of the most memorable masterpieces of the twentieth century.
He was also well known for his experimental films and the social circles he hung around with. Many of whom would come and spend time at The Factory, his New York studio where much of his work was made.
An exhibition coming to Proud Galleries on the 11th April will give us a glimpse behind the curtain of this almost mythical space and at the artist himself.
In and Out of Warhol’s Orbit: Photographs by Nat Finkelstein, is a compelling and intimate exhibition revealing the complex characters behind the well-documented tensions and hedonism of Andy Warhol’s studio.
Photojournalist Nat Finkelstein spent three years as the house photographer at the original incarnation of Warhol’s studio, the ‘Silver Factory‘
Here with extraordinary access, Nat documented this fascinating and pivotal moment of cultural history in 1960s America, capturing the many artists, producers and musicians who frequented the infamous Factory at the height of its prominence.
In the 1950’s, Nat Finkelstein interned for legendary Harper’s Bazaar Art Director, Alexey Brodovitch, before moving on to supply photography for publications such as ‘LIFE’ magazine and ‘Sports Illustrated’.
A commission from ‘Pagaent’ magazine in 1962 with a request to photograph the Pop Art scene, allowed Nat Finkelstein to meet Andy Warhol – and, stunned by the apparent decadence of life at the Factory, Finkelstein resolved to capture this environment teeming with the underground bourgeoisie.
His fascination with the countercultures of the era led him to stay on as photographer at the Factory for three years, resulting in a collection that has the glamour, energy and edge of a 1960s film set.
Upon falling out with Warhol and his turbulent circle, Finkelstein left the Factory in order to pursue a more politically engaged lifestyle.
Through his documentary style photography, Finkelstein discreetly recorded the milieu of creatives and socialites who were regulars at the Factory including Edie Sedgwick, The Velvet Underground, Nico, Brian Jones and Betsey Johnson.
The exhibition includes rare vintage and unique signed prints of Andy Warhol and ‘the Factory Girl’ Edie Sedgwick, along with screentests of a young Bob Dylan. Finkelstein’s work has a distinctive, candid style.
His determination and ingenuity allowed him to capture private moments within an exclusive circle, one which was constantly on display to the outside world.
In and Out of Warhol’s Orbit: Photographs by Nat Finkelstein, Proud Central, 11th April 2019 – 9th June 2019, www.proud.co.uk
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