Varoom!

For other uses, see Varoom (disambiguation).

Varoom!
ArtistRoy Lichtenstein
Year1963
MovementPop art
Dimensions142.2 cm × 142.2 cm (56 in × 56 in)
LocationThe John and Kimiko Powers Collection

Varoom! is a 1963 pop art painting by Roy Lichtenstein that depicts an explosion and the onomatopoeic sound that gives it its name.

Background

Varoom, 1965

In the early- and mid-1960s Lichtenstein produced several of his most notable works, many with themes of war or romance, but others with themes of explosions or brushstrokes. Several of Lichtenstein's large-scale depictions of explosions, such as Varoom! are iconic.[1] Varoom! along with Whaam! and Bratatat! are among Lichtenstein's most recognizable onomatopoeic works and was in a sense part of Lichtenstein's response to action painting. [2]

Lichtenstein's list of aeronautically themed works is extensive. Varoom! is an explosion that is regarded as part of that theme.[3] Varoom!, which depicts an instantaneous explosion, is composed of the primary colors presented over a light dotted background. Black and white specs add crackle to the composition. The block-lettered text, "VAROOM!", stands out, giving a title to the shattering event.[3]

In 1964, this painting served as the basis for the beginning of Lichtenstein's sculptural efforts, when he produced an enameled steel work that extended his theme of flatness. In 1965, he extended this theme to ceramic art.[4][5]

Lichtenstein also created another painting entitled Varoom (no exclamation point, 1965).[6]

Critical appraisal

Varoom!, which spews action and drama, is based on the "visual language of comics", unlike the romance and war comic-based work that focuses more on the narrative than the graphic details as this work does.[7]

See also

Sources

  1. ^ "Art Institute opens the most comprehensive exhibition ever devoted to Roy Lichtenstein". ArtDaily. May 22, 2012. Retrieved June 23, 2013.
  2. ^ "The Report: Mr Roy Lichtenstein". MrPorter.com. February 12, 2013. Retrieved June 23, 2013.
  3. ^ a b Pisano, Dominick A., ed. (2003). The Airplane in American Culture. University of Michigan Press. p. 275. ISBN 0472068334. Retrieved June 21, 2013.
  4. ^ "Wall Explosion II 1965". Tate Modern. Retrieved June 23, 2013.
  5. ^ Weitman, Wendy; et al. (2002). Pop Impressions Europe/USA: Prints and Multiples from The Museum of Modern Art. Museum of Modern Art. p. 73. ISBN 0870700774. Retrieved June 23, 2013.
  6. ^ "Varoom". LichtensteinFoundation.org. Retrieved June 23, 2013.
  7. ^ Carl K. (July 27, 2012). "Lichtenstein of the Week". Art Institute of Chicago. Retrieved June 23, 2013.