I’ve always found portrait art to be a little problematic. Of course, so much of it is gorgeous. But, sometimes, doesn’t it feel like you’re being watched? Or is that just me? What about if the piece is some iconic person – do famous faces make a difference? Somehow more artistic and yet less personal?
Some famous faces are sure iconic and I’ve long run across the use of their beautiful faces in interiors. Most are dead. But not all.
Jackie Kennedy Onassis – Famous Faces
Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis had many “periods” in her style and “look”. She was one of the most famous women in the world but yet she managed to remain just a little mysterious. She embodied late 50’s/early 60’s wifely lovliness and then moved so well into modern 70’s chic.
Andy Warhol played no small part in making famous portrait art so popular in interiors. He captured everybody who was anybody.
This black and white Jackie image above is chic and cool in this Palm Beach living room designed by Lindsey Lane Design. Notably, it’s pretty much life-size.
Marilyn Monroe – Famous Faces
The gorgeous Marilyn Monroe, ran through the Andy Warhol art factory, graces this colorful bedroom by Miles Redd. I love Miles – but I can’t say this is my favorite use of a famous face. It seems kind of random, no?
This use above of Marilyn’s image is just fantastic, I think. I love how the purple blends so well into the counter top and the lipstick kisses really pull it all together.
Eric Cohler used the same black and white Warhol Marilyn as Miles Redd did. I can see sitting at the computer and having a convo with Marilyn about living life and wishing she’d been happier.
There’s nothing like a sexy naked Marilyn in a bedroom. I think this works so well because it’s a black and white photograph amidst all the color.
Queen Elizabeth II – Famous Faces
I think everyone, monarchist or not, loves Queen Elizabeth. She’s just so stalwart, always there. And, she’s still lovely at 92. I think it’s been said that more people have seen her in person or on tv than anyone else who has ever existed.
I so wish these Karl Lohnes QEII prints were still available at CB2. What fun!
This mosaic is so cool.
Liza Minelli – Famous Faces
And finally, we have Liza Minelli’s foyer which features … Liza Minelli of course. I mean, if you can have an actual Warhol of you, wouldn’t you? And peaking around the corner on the right is a montage of Liza and her mom Judy Garland.
What do you think? Would you want Marilyn laying naked over your bed or the Queen looking down on your supper imperiously?
Awesome post. Love. The images you chose and I think I agree with your commentary on each. After giving it thought, I don’’t thinkI like the concept except for the Marilyn kitchen and the QEII mosaic.
Thanks Jeri!