Warhol's Documented Life

Andy Warhol’s life, arguably more documented than any other artist's, offers a rich tapestry of everyday artifacts and eccentricities that paint a vivid picture of his world. Every few days, Warhol swept his desk contents into a box, labeled it “TC” for “time capsule,” and stored it. These 610 boxes, now housed in the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, contain everything from Polaroids to medical bills, providing an intimate look into his life and art.

Born in 1928 in Pittsburgh to Slovakian immigrants, Warhol grew up in a working-class, Byzantine Catholic family. His father’s death in 1942 led his older brothers to leave school and work full-time, while Warhol, supported by his family, continued his education. He fell in love with photography and film at a young age, using a Baby Brownie Special camera and a projector bought with his mother’s housecleaning savings.

Warhol attended the Carnegie Institute of Technology, where his talents were recognized and nurtured. In 1949, he moved to New York City, living in roach-infested sublets while attempting to break into commercial illustration. Despite setbacks, his persistence paid off. His big break came when an insect crawled out of his portfolio at Harper’s Bazaar, prompting the editor to give him a chance out of sympathy.

Warhol’s early career in New York was marked by his unique and sometimes controversial style. Openly homosexual at a time when it was taboo, he was known for his provocative drawings and bold personality. His mother joined him in New York in 1952, staying for nearly two decades and contributing to the household’s quirky dynamic, which included a large number of Siamese cats.

Despite his growing success, Warhol was plagued by insecurities about his appearance, leading to a nose job and a signature silver wig. His personal life was as complex as his art, marked by contradictions and secrecy. He lied frequently, even about his age and background, creating a mystique around his persona.

In the 1950s, Warhol became a sought-after commercial artist, known for his shoe advertisements. However, he yearned for recognition as a gallery artist. Connections within the art world, particularly through figures like Emile de Antonio and Ivan Karp, helped him transition to the avant-garde scene. His breakthrough came in the 1960s with iconic Pop Art works like the Campbell’s soup cans and Brillo boxes, which challenged traditional art and celebrated the banal.

Warhol’s life was not without drama. In 1968, he was shot by Valerie Solanas, a radical feminist, and nearly died. The aftermath, including his medical recovery, was meticulously documented and adds to the mythos surrounding him. His legacy continues through his vast archive of time capsules, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the life of one of the 20th century’s most influential artists.

-The New Yorker Margazine- Untangling Andy Warhol by Joan Acocella