Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art
Prešov Region
The Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art, located in Medzilaborce, Slovakia, is a unique biographical museum dedicated to the life, work, and family origins of the American pop art pioneer Andy Warhol. Established in 1991 through the collaboration of Warhol's brother John Warhola, the Andy Warhol Foundation, and Slovak cultural authorities, the museum occupies a repurposed post office building from the Communist era. It features three main exhibition sections: the first focuses on Warhol's Ruthenian heritage and family, displaying personal belongings and historical documents that attest to his Slovak roots. The second section presents an extensive collection of Warhol's artworks, including iconic pieces like the Campbell's Soup series, Marilyn Monroe portraits, and politically themed works such as "Hammer and Sickle" and "Red Lenin." These artworks, totaling around 160 permanent pieces, illustrate all his creative periods and dominant themes, primarily created using silkscreen techniques. The newest exhibition, "Street art vs. Pop art," explores the influence of Warhol on contemporary artists like Roy Lichtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring, complemented by street art-inspired works and the documentary film "Banksy – Exit Through The Gift Shop." The museum also honors Warhol's family, with exhibitions of works by his brothers and son, emphasizing the familial artistic legacy. This cultural institution not only celebrates Warhol's global artistic impact but also his deep connections to his ancestral homeland, making it a compelling destination for art lovers and cultural historians alike.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during regular museum opening hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. The museum offers a unique insight into Andy Warhol's origins and artistic evolution, so allocating sufficient time to explore all exhibitions is recommended. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The best time to visit is outside peak tourist seasons to fully enjoy the exhibitions without crowds.
Interesting facts
- •The museum was the first in the world dedicated solely to Andy Warhol's personality and art.
- •It houses around 160 permanent works by Warhol, including some of his most famous series like Campbell's Soup and Marilyn Monroe.
- •The museum features authentic personal belongings of Warhol, such as his camera, cassette player, sunglasses, and clothing.
- •A 230 cm statue of Andy Warhol by Juraj Bartusz stands in front of the museum.
- •The museum's exhibitions include works by artists influenced by Warhol, such as Roy Lichtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring.
History
Founded on 1 September 1991, the museum was initiated by John Warhola, Andy Warhol's brother, alongside Slovak cultural figures and the Andy Warhol Foundation.
The first original artworks arrived shortly after, and the museum opened officially in October 1991.
Originally named The Warhol Family Museum of Modern Art, it was renamed in 1996.
In 2002, the Prešov Self-Governing Region became a founding member, and a statue of Warhol was unveiled in front of the museum.
The museum marked its 20th and 25th anniversaries with commemorative events, including visits from Warhol's relatives.
Place Guide
Origins and Family Exhibition
This section presents the Warhol family's Ruthenian roots with authentic documents, artifacts, and personal belongings of Andy Warhol, including his baptismal shirt and personal items like a camera and sunglasses. It also features documents attesting to the family's origins in Miková, Slovakia.
Andy Warhol Art Collection
The largest exhibition area showcasing approximately 160 original artworks by Andy Warhol, spanning all his creative periods and themes such as death, celebrity portraits, and political motifs. Highlights include the Campbell's Soup series, Marilyn Monroe portraits, and politically charged works like "Hammer and Sickle" and "Red Lenin." The artworks are displayed in a pop art style with wallpapered walls creating a cohesive visual experience.
Street Art vs. Pop Art Exhibition
The newest exhibition juxtaposes Warhol's pop art with street art, featuring works by artists influenced by him such as Roy Lichtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and others. It includes poster compositions inspired by street art and the documentary film "Banksy – Exit Through The Gift Shop."
