Standing Still Lifes

An exhibition of works by Tom Wesselmann at Gagosian, on view from January 18th – February 24th, 2018.

In all of my dimensional work I use the third dimension to intensify the two-dimensional experience. It becomes part of a vivid two-dimensional image. The third dimension, while actually existing, is only an illusion in terms of the painting, which remains by intent in a painting and not a sculptural context. —Slim Stealingworth (a pseudonym of Tom Wesselmann)

As you can tell by the fun and oversized nature of the artworks, Tom Wesselmann is a famous Pop Artist (1931–2004). Wesselmann studied at Cooper Union in New York and eventually settled there post college, where he supported himself drawing cartoons.

“I used what was around me, so my culture was what I used. But I didn’t use it for cultural reasons, it was not a cultural comment.” - Tom Wesselmann in his biography

This exhibition (Standing Still Lifes) - was the most significant of his career, where he pushed the boundaries between sculpture and painting.

“The challenge for an artist is always to find your own way of doing something.” - Tom Wesselmann in his biography

His artwork can  be found in major collections across the world at well-known establishments such as

High Museum of Art, Atlanta, GA

The Museum of Modern Art, New York, NY

Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, NY

Hara Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo

The artist’s estate is represented by Gagosian and Almine Rech Gallery.