Letter To the World (The Kick), from Martha Graham Suite, 1986

Andy Warhol, a leading figure in the Pop Art movement, is renowned for his innovative approach to art, which often blurred the boundaries between fine art and popular culture. Known for his screenprints of iconic figures and everyday objects, Warhol explored themes of fame, identity, and consumerism throughout his career. In his later years, he began to integrate more classical references, often drawing inspiration from influential personalities and artistic forms. One of these works, Letter to the World (The Kick), from Martha Graham Suite (1986), reflects Warhol’s admiration for the legendary dancer and choreographer Martha Graham, capturing the power and poise of her art through his distinctive style.

This artwork is a screenprint in colors on Lenox Museum Board and is a unique trial proof, showcasing a version of Letter to the World that is singular in its color composition. Measuring 36 by 36 inches, this piece bears stamps from “The Estate of Andy Warhol” and the “Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts” on its reverse, verifying its authenticity. The image celebrates Graham’s expressive movement, with Warhol’s vibrant colors and simplified forms adding a layer of modernity to the timeless grace of dance. Created near the end of his life, this work reflects Warhol’s shift toward appreciating traditional art forms through a Pop Art lens, merging his fascination with celebrity and performance with a refined homage to one of America’s artistic pioneers.