Julianne - Benrimon Contemporary
Homage to Monet. The exhibition features numerous Lichtenstein artworks that show reverence to Monet such as the Cathedral and Haystack series as well as the Water Lilies series, which consists of 6 different, innovative multiples that were made in small editions on stainless steel. With this progression, he suggests that the work of Monet is as iconographic as a Mickey Mouse cartoon; another entry in our cultural vocabulary of images.
Benrimon Contemporary will launch its New York City exhibition and gallery space at 514 West 24th
Street this spring with its inaugural show Roy Lichtenstein: Homage to Monet. The exhibition will
present paintings and multiples that will turn the 2,000 square foot gallery overlooking 24th street
into a vivid discussion between Monet and Lichtenstein.
The exhibit will feature numerous Lichtenstein artworks that show reverence to Claude Monet such
as the Cathedral and Haystack series as well as the Water Lilies series, which consists of 6
different, innovative multiples that were made in small editions on stainless steel. In these series,
Lichtenstein expands upon his tradition of taking recognizable imagery and transforming it into Pop
Art. With this progression, he suggests that the work of Monet is as iconographic as a Mickey Mouse
cartoon; another entry in our cultural vocabulary of images. Lichtenstein employs his trademark
use of color and form to rework Monet’s legendary paintings, as well as our perceptions.
Lichtenstein’s Water Lilies series reflects not only inventive artistry, but also a culminating point in
the artist’s development. Inspired by Monet’s Nympheas, Lichtenstein absorbed and appropriated
his predecessor’s work, but with modern admiration and interpretation. Monet’s series was
groundbreaking in its emphasis on abstraction, comprehension of light, and its rejection of
illusionary perspective. Lichtenstein moves beyond Monet’s lessons thoughtfully using reflective
forms, Pop imagery, and careful composition to further a dialogue about abstraction and pictorial
space. Lichtenstein used the Pop generation’s message aimed at exploiting contemporary society
and portrayed Monet’s reflections in a new way. He allows a simplistic rendering of nature in the
figures on the mirror, but nature is sublimated to Pop culture’s obsession with self, as indicated by
the reflecting mirror behind the portrayals of nature; the contemporary viewer can see themselves
behind the natural scene. Visually satisfying and optically exciting, these pieces employ color,
light, pattern, and reflection to make complex and changing spaces.
Benrimon Contemporary will present solo and group shows of established Contemporary and Modern
artists. The gallery will carefully curate shows that present innovative ways to explain the
continuum of Modern to Contemporary art. Benrimon Contemporary will market and sell important
paintings and sculptures by Modern, Post-war, Contemporary and emerging artists to some of the
world’s most prestigious clients while cultivating the new generation of soon-to-be prestigious
collectors. The gallery will provide acquisition, management, and consulting services with
integrity and professionalism.
For information and images please contact: Julianne Coates
Call +1 212 924 2400 or email julianne@bcontemporary.com
Image:
Roy Lichtenstein, Water Lily Pond with Reflections, 1992. Courtesy of Benrimon Contemporary.
Opening: Thursday, April 8, 5 - 9 PM
Benrimon Contemporary
514 West 24th Street, 2nd Floor - New York
Open Monday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by
appointment any other time. Admission is free.