#10: Legend of Pop - Peter Max

Peter Max is a longstanding household name in the pop art scene that is akin to Andy Warhol. Since the 1960s, he has been acknowledged and risen to fame for his eclectic and vibrant style and contribution to the history of psychedelic posters during a time of great social movement, protest, and experimentation amongst the youth culture. He is considered to have revolutionized art the same way that the Beatles made such a huge impact on the music industry. Today, at 74-years old, he continues to commission legendary pieces of artwork with such prestigious patrons as the Grammys, Olympics, six presidents, United Nations, and current, popular celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Shaq.

(A younger Max in the past, doing what he loves)

(A more recent photo of Max, featuring his piece on a grand piano for Ringo Star) 

As a child, Max moved around periodically across the world, having lived in China, Tibet, Israel, France, Germany, and America. Having explored and immersed in such a diverse set of cultures and societies, Max was greatly influenced by his various surroundings and quite open-minded and enlightened by the wonders of the infinite beauty that was abundant in each different country. His insight provided a rich background and fuel for his immense artistic creativity. What really ignited his artistic endeavors, however, was his thirst and love for astronomy. He was enthralled by the grandness of outer space and celestial elements, which, combined with his love for art, created his famous, trademark technique known as the "The Cosmic '60s". This style involved a bold, linear type of painting that was art-nouveau inspired, and which utilized Fauvist color choices, and chill, transcendental themes and imagery. This style was revolutionary amongst psychedelic posters and made a dramatic impact on art during the 60s. His expressionistic, sensuous style, lavished with vibrant pigmentation and symbolism has gained him numerous followers throughout the young generations of America.

(above are prime examples of his "Cosmic 60s" style) 

Similar to other psychedelic poster designers of his time, Max did art not for commercial intentions but for establishing strong, influential social viewpoints. An environmentalist and embracer of democracy and justified freedom, Max often included his personal opinions about society in his work. He encouraged environmentalism and a healthier Earth through art. His famous works that depict The Statue of Liberty and great Presidents were dedicated to his passion for justice and a liberated American society. 

(Max's piece done to promote Earth Day)

(Max's piece done in 2000 of the Statue of Liberty. Considered to be one of his most monumental masterpieces) 

To this day Max has contributed much famous artwork to America and the world. Although many artists of olden day have disappeared or unable to compete with the more modern generation of artists, Max continues to establish and reinvent himself strongly within the industry. His styles has influenced numerous followers who implement his vibrant and distinct style in their own creations. Max has remained relevant with his work and current exhibitions of famous celebrities, from Taylor Swift and Steven Tyler to Obama! His work and style has evolved from the psychedelic days of the past to a more modern era of pop art. The man remains an influential and extremely innovative legend that continues to awe the current youth generation similarly to how he did the same during the 60s.

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