Andy Warhol

Camouflage

1986

© 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Artists Right Society (ARS), New York and DACS, London

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Not on display

Artist: Andy Warhol 1928–1987
Medium: Acrylic paint and silkscreen on 4 canvases
Dimensions: Support, each: 1830 x 1830 x 33 mm
Collection: ARTIST ROOMS Tate and National Galleries of Scotland
Acquisition: ARTIST ROOMS Acquired jointly with the National Galleries of Scotland through The d'Offay Donation with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Art Fund 2008
Reference: AR00611

Display caption

Camouflage is specifically designed to blend into its environment, but the pattern is also strongly associated with the armed forces. The paradox of a disguise which is also a recognisable emblem may have appealed to Warhol’s concern with brands and logos. Reproducing the non-representational pattern also connected with his long-held interest in Abstract Expressionist painting. In this series of colourful reworkings, the function of camouflage is obliterated. On the furthest right panel, the pattern becomes mock-patriotic, in red, white and blue.

Gallery label, March 2010

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