B2B30 Warhol Tour Synopsis

2nd March, 2008

AGDA Queensland kicked off the Back to Basic series for 2008 with a visit to GoMA's Andy Warhol exhibition. Associate Curator of International Art, David Burnett provided a guided tour of the exhibition for us all. His light and captivating commentary was very insightful while also quite entertaining. 

Apart from the well-known and wide selection of Warhol pieces, we were all delighted to trawl through a few of his 'time-capsules' – where he collected a variety of bits and pieces that came his way. Included in these displays were many samples of design from the era, these ranged from matchbooks, theatre programs, and various small packaging to letterheads, toys, invitations and posters. They also contained various correspondence that was sent to the artist from friends, fans and foes. These made for some very entertaining reading.  

Warhol's obsession with recording his life and capturing images on film of people around him was also on display. Although quite bazaar a lot of the time, it was also very interesting to see true snapshots into periods of time. By focusing on the mundane of the time, he was creating something unique for the future.

The exhibition also showcased Warhol’s Interview magazine. Started in the 1970s, it is the very essence of magazine chic. The sensational full face artist-designed covers featured prominent celebrities while its large format allowed for spectacular photographic layouts to accompany articles as well as striking and artistic ads. 

After the tour we were treated to coffee and muffins at GoMA's members lounge (fantastic muffins!) where we all had a chance to catch up and socialise. It was a popular event, with 41 of us enjoying the B2B – a hint to get in quick for the increasing popular Back to Basics! 

A big thanks to GoMA, David Burnett, Elliot Murray and all the volunteers that helped put together another great event. 

[Pictured: Katherine May (AGDA Qld Secretary) and Sharon Gray participating in the Warhol Kids 'Warhol portrait']