Upstairs Artspace presents the third in its Art Film series, Tuesday Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. at the gallery. The one-hour Ric Burns documentary unearths rarely seen footage and offers keen observations on the life and artistic influence of Andy Warhol.
A leading figure in the visual art movement known as Pop, Warhol’s works explore the relationship between artistic expression, celebrity culture and advertisement that flourished in the 1960s. After a successful career as a commercial illustrator, Warhol became a renowned and sometimes controversial artist.
His art encompassed many forms of media, including hand drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, silk screening, sculpture, film and music. He was also a pioneer in computer-generated art using Amiga computers that were introduced in 1984, two years before his death. He founded Interview Magazine and was the author of numerous books, including “The Philosophy of Andy Warhol” and “Popism: The Warhol Sixties.” His studio, The Factory, was a famous gathering place that brought together distinguished intellectuals, drag queens, playwrights, Bohemian street people, Hollywood celebrities and wealthy patrons.
The free film will begin at 6:30, but the gallery’s doors will open at 6 p.m. so that filmgoers can gather for popcorn and conversation prior to the show. The event is made possible through a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation under its Community Matters free event program.
The Upstairs Artspace is a non-profit art gallery whose mission is to develop an understanding and appreciation of contemporary art and craft forms through exhibits, programs and educational activities that enrich the cultural life of the region. Its free programs are made possible through the support of the Polk County Community Foundation, the North Carolina Council of the Arts and the generous support of its members. The gallery is located at 49 S. Trade St., Tryon. For additional information: 828-859-2828.

-article submitted
by Tom Madison