Paloma Picasso 121 by Andy Warhol was published in the portfolio America’s Hommage à Picasso, which contains works by 68 artists. The piece is a unique acetate positive of Pablo Picasso and Françoise Gilot’s daughter, Paloma Picasso. The vibrant colors of the orange, purple, and turquoise blocks that cover Paloma’s right eye sharply contrast the black and white shading that Warhol uses on her face. It is this contrast that directs the viewer’s gaze towards Paloma’s exposed eye, bringing the viewer into the world of the subject.
Paloma Picasso 121 as Part of Andy Warhol’s Larger Body of Work
Paloma Picasso took after the creativity of her renowned parents. Paloma was a fashion designer and businesswoman, whose jewelry was a staple at Tiffany & Co. Two of the pieces that she created are held at museums in the U.S. Her moonstone ring is featured at The Field Museum of Natural History and her kunzite and pearl necklace is on display at the National Museum of Natural History. Paloma was also one of Warhol’s closest friends and confidants. She often conversed with him about her jewelry and perfume lines while they enjoyed nights out together. Warhol used acetates of his photographs and drawings for his screenprints, including the piece shown here. This particular piece is a testament of Warhol’s significant contribution to screenprinting as the work of acetates was the most important element in this creative process.
