Forms In Space
Forms In Space
Signed Print
Roy Lichtenstein
£100,000-£150,000Value Indicator
$210,000-$310,000 Value Indicator
$180,000-$280,000 Value Indicator
¥970,000-¥1,450,000 Value Indicator
€120,000-€170,000 Value Indicator
$1,060,000-$1,590,000 Value Indicator
¥19,790,000-¥29,680,000 Value Indicator
$140,000-$200,000 Value Indicator
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89 x 132cm, Edition of 125, Screenprint
AAGR (5 years) This estimate blends recent public auction records with our own private sale data and network demand.
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Meaning & Analysis
Pop pioneer Roy Lichtenstein often drew inspiration from popular and commercialised themes for his artworks. Forms In Space was executed in 1985 and depicts a pop rendition of the American flag. The print was commissioned for the Philadelphia Institute of Contemporary Art’s annual theme-based fundraiser celebrating national emblems and morals.
In his signature style, Lichtenstein breaks down the flag’s elemental features into enlarged blue dots and red slanted lines. This mechanised interpretation of the flag explores the artifice of perspective and the limits of flatness. Abstracted and inserted into a cartoon narrative, Lichtenstein’s appropriated composition exemplifies his artistic wit.
Stripping the object of its original context and appearance, the artist reduces its implied uniqueness and individuality. By calling his depiction of the flag Forms in Space, the artist draws attention to society’s need for universal symbols.
Similar to I Love Libertyfrom a few years prior, Lichtenstein reimagines an omnipresent sign and accentuates its banality. The artist employs substitute forms that are indicative of consumerism and commercialism. In doing so, he also captures the cultural atmosphere of the 1980s. Ultimately, Lichtenstein’s configuration challenges reflexes and intuition. Forms in Space manifests a brand new symbol; a brilliant refashioning of an American icon.
Roy Lichtenstein, born in New York, 1923, is a seminal figure in the Pop Art movement, renowned for his comic book and advertisement-inspired artworks. His transformative journey from classical painter to Pop Art pioneer began with his iconic piece, Look Mickey, marking the fusion of painting with pop culture. Lichtenstein’s works, including Whaam!, Drowning Girl, and Crying Girl, blend parody and satire, challenging the boundaries between popular culture and ‘high art’. With over 5,000 pieces to his name, Lichtenstein’s enduring influence resonates in contemporary art, his works celebrated in prestigious institutions worldwide.