Analysis

Analysis

Artist's Intentions: In order to catch his viewer's attention, Lichtenstein used bright colors and American Iconography. His abstraction combined with his use of Pop Art are used to make the viewer really think about the piece. It is not something that you can look at and immediately understand. You need to spend a few minutes thinking about all of the elements and what they represent. Lichtenstein was most like trying to comment on politics and America, but also show his love of the brush stroke due to this repeated theme in his other works. The artist wishes to create contrast with his use of clean-cut bold lines and shapes and chaotic, randomly placed brush strokes.

Meaning: Lichtenstein is obviously trying to comment on issues in the United States. The Statue of Liberty is a representation of this. Perhaps the uneasiness of the off center layout represents chaos in America due to the United States being in the midst of the Cold War at the time this was made. The bold colors could suggest that despite the chaos, the country is still strong and united. Lichtenstein is also perhaps being satirical. Combining American iconography with bold colors is something he knew would draw viewers in, so perhaps he did this to prove that this is what people want to see; "idols" of their country. This means that people art more drawn to the iconography of their own country rather than another Also, the brush strokes may represent his love of art. In the midst of this chaos, Lichtenstein has art as his sanctuary. Painting may have been a good distraction amidst the madness and perhaps he wishes to inspire others to take the same path that he has taken.

Judgement: I believe that the work is very successful. The piece clearly evokes certain emotions from the viewer while looking at it; pride and chaos. The colors, large scale, and elements draw the viewer in. As I stated before, the piece makes the viewer think. This is something that many artists aim to do when making their art. He plays off of the American sense of pride and uses it to his advantage to capture attention. His clean cut lines contrasted with the chaotic brush strokes create variety and keep the viewer's interest.

Personal Preference: I am personally drawn to pieces with bold lines and bright colors so naturally, that is why I chose this one. I love the comic book style and use of American iconography. I enjoy using bold shapes and colors in my own art, so seeing this piece was inspiring. I also enjoy pieces that do not have a blatantanly obvious message and use bold, familiar imagery. Lichtenstein is a truly inspiring artist to look look up to.