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| Warhol at CSU, 1981 |
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| Detail of soup can at CSU |
For me growing up part of the year in Fort Collins, the infamous
Campbell's soup can has long been a trademark of the town. Andy Warhol famously signed a recreation of one of his iconic images when visiting CSU in September of 1981. I started coming to Fort Collins at an early age, when my father relocated from California. Since my parents are divorced, I spent my summers engaging in youth various activities at CSU and my winters frolicking in the Front Range snowstorms. It wasn't until I had to contemplate a college career did I decide to stay year-round. (Still not complete, I'm on the gazillion year plan!)
However the Warhol that has always struck me as the most profound is the one currently on display at the Denver Art Museum; the portrait of American Indian Movement leader Russell Means entitled
The American Indian. Warhol is known for his bright portraiture and yet this piece, done in palette of black, white and gray tones seems to comment on the lack of vibrancy normally associated with a Native American ceremonially dressed in full regalia.
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| The American Indian, Warhol on display at the Denver Art Museum |
