Andy Warhol Howdy Doody (F & S II.263) For Sale

"Howdy Doody" is a part of Andy Warhol's renowned 1981 Myths series, which features ten imaginary figures from American popular culture. The well-known freckle-faced marionette Howdy Doody from the children's television programme of the same name is portrayed by Warhol in his typical pop-art style. Ten recognisable personalities from literature, film, and history are showcased in the Myths portfolio. These are fictional characters that became idols over time and effectively captured the magic of American pop culture in the 20th century. All of these characters developed into larger-than-life identities who represent a range of protagonists, from lovable childhood caricatures to corrupt villains to steadfast heroes.

Howdy Doody was an American children's television series created by Victor F. Campbell and E. Roger Muir. It presented themes of the circus and the Western frontier. In the United States, it aired on the NBC television network from December 27, 1947, until September 24, 1960. Being a trailblazer in children's programming, it established the standard for other subsequent programmes. NBC (which was then owned by RCA Television) utilised the show to market colour television sets in the late 1950s. It was one of the first television shows produced at NBC in Rockefeller Centre, in Studio 3A. The show also pioneered colour production in 1956. The character of Howdy Doody left a lasting impression on American viewers, gaining widespread recognition, popularity, and a devoted following.

A blue-eyed boy with recognisable ginger hair, a gap-tooth grin, prominent ears, and freckled cheeks is depicted by Warhol in this print. The youngster takes up half of the frame with his comically huge hands and head. He waves to the audience, beaming with a youthful joyfulness. He's dressed on a western-style cowboy outfit complete with checkered blue flannel, yellow gloves, and a bright red bandana. Warhol uses a delicate pink-purple gradient to trace over the character, emphasising these primary colours. This is a technique he frequently used to draw attention to his subjects, as seen in series like Endangered Species. The print has "diamond dust" inlay, which is made of broken glass fragments that reflect light and give the impression of three dimensions. In order to emphasise the graphic approach, Warhol also contours the image using his signature crayon-like line work. There is a definitive sense of artifice in this piece, due to the exaggerated smile and marionette proportions of the character; perhaps Warhol is commenting on the artificial manufacturing of fame and the American Dream.

Buy Andy Warhol Howdy Doody (F & S II.263)

Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Warhol market for over 20 years. To enquire about buying  Howdy Doody (F & S II.263) by Andy Warhol, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.

Sell Howdy Doody (F & S. II 263) by Andy Warhol

With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Andy Warhol Howdy Doody (F & S II.263) print. Straight-forward and stress-free, we manage the process on your behalf and help to maximise your return. For a complimentary valuation of your Howdy Doody (F & S II.263) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.