Smoker, 1976

Tom Wesselmann, an American artist associated with the Pop Art movement, is renowned for his bold and vibrant depictions of everyday objects, often exploring themes of desire and consumption. One of his notable artworks, "Smoker" from 1985, encapsulates the essence of Wesselmann's distinctive style. The piece features an iconic image of sensuous, red lips exhaling smoke from a cigarette. The bold use of color, especially the vivid red, draws attention to the seductive nature of the subject matter, while the act of smoking itself becomes a symbol of rebellion and indulgence. Wesselmann's meticulous attention to detail and the exaggerated size of the lips in the composition serve to amplify the impact of this iconic image, making it a quintessential representation of his contribution to the Pop Art genre.

"Smoker" not only captures the visual language of Pop Art but also reflects Wesselmann's fascination with the commodification of desire in contemporary culture. The cigarette, a common object transformed into a symbol of allure, embodies the artist's commentary on the pervasive influence of advertising and mass media on individual desires. Wesselmann's ability to elevate mundane elements to the realm of high art is evident in "Smoker," as he transforms the ordinary act of smoking into a provocative and visually arresting image that remains iconic within the context of his oeuvre.