The Andy Warhol Museum
The Andy Warhol Museum is a monument to the artist who brought the avant-garde to the forefront of contemporary culture. Nestled in Pittsburgh, this museum unveils the layers of Warhol’s genius, showcasing his pioneering work that redefined the boundaries of art. From iconic prints to immersive installations, it’s a journey through Warhol’s kaleidoscopic vision.
The Andy Warhol Museum pays homage to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s famous artistic son. Stepping inside, visitors learn more about the enigma behind the legendary Campbell’s Soup Cans, delve into the allure of celebrity portraits, and witness the evolution of pop art.
Location
Across the Andy Warhol Bridge from downtown Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol Museum is located at 117 Sandusky Street in the old Frick & Lindsay Co building, a former warehouse for oil wells, mill, and mine supplies. It’s quite befitting that his art collection is housed in a building known for its classical, Beaux-Arts exterior.
At The Museum
The museum houses the largest collection of Andy Warhol’s art. It includes prints, photographs, sketches, and films. The collection also includes his serial work Time Capsules – 610 containers that the artist filled, sealed, and sent to storage.
There are seven floors and a basement devoted to all things Andy Warhol. There are:
- 900 paintings
- approximately 100 sculptures
- nearly 2,000 works on paper
- 4,000+ photographs
- 60 feature films
- 200 Screen Tests
- 4,000+ videos
The museum also hosts collections from contemporary artists that resonate with Warhol.
Andy Warhol In a Nutshell
Andy was born Andrew Warhola on August 6, 1928. The son of immigrants, he was a first-generation American and grew up in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood.
When he was in third grade, Andy had Sydenham’s chorea, a possible complication of scarlet fever. While at home in bed, his mother kept him supplied with comics and coloring books. He also played with paper cutouts. These would prove formidable in his artistic development.
Andy developed a fixation on his physical flaws. He had discolored pigmentation and was called “Spot” and “Andy the Red-nosed Warhola.” This, too, would factor into some of Andy’s art pieces later on.
Andy attended the Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) from 1945 to 1949. After he graduated from college, he moved to New York and it was there that he modified his last name (he dropped the final “a”).
Warhol began his professional career in the 1950s as a commercial illustrator. In the 1960s, you can see where the pop art movement garnered his attention.
In addition to his drawings and paintings, Warhol also produced a range of films. His most commercially successful film, the three-hour-long, double-screen The Chelsea Girls, was produced in 1966.
Perhaps his best-known art is his iconic series of Campbell’s Soup Cans – 32 canvases representing the 32 varieties of Campbell’s Soup sold at the time.
Warhol’s art was characterized by its use of repetition and bold, eye-catching colors. His studio, known as “The Factory,” became a hub for avant-garde artists and celebrities, fostering a unique blend of art, music, and fashion.
Beyond visual art, Warhol ventured into filmmaking, producing experimental works like “Chelsea Girls” and “Empire.” He also managed the rock band The Velvet Underground, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.
Warhol’s influence extended far beyond the art world. He challenged traditional notions of art, celebrity, and commercialism, leaving an enduring legacy. Sadly, he passed away on February 22, 1987, but his art continues to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide, making him an enduring figure in contemporary art history.
Hours and Admission
The museum is visitor-friendly and accessible. Hours are:
| Sunday | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
| Monday | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
| Tuesday | CLOSED |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
| Thursday | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
| Friday | 10:00 am-10:00 pm |
| Saturday | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
Admission is $25 for adults and $13 for children 3-18, students, and seniors. Museum memberships are available.
Discounts
AAA members receive $1 off per ticket for up to six people.
Active military personnel receive 50% off admission for up to four people per military ID. From the third Saturday in May (Armed Forces Day) until Labor Day, admission is FREE for the ID holder and up to five family members.
Veterans receive a 50% discount on admission year-round, as well as 50% for up to 4 people on Veterans Day.
Bank of America or Merrill Lynch customers with active credit and debit cards receive free admission the first full weekend of each month. Customers must present a valid photo ID.
Area university students receive free admission. (Please refer to the Andy Warhol Museum website for a list of eligible universities.)
Learn more about the Andy Warhol Museum by visiting Warhol.org.
Final Call
Round out your Pittsburgh art adventure with even more city highlights. Stay in style at the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, plan memorable meals with Where To Eat in Pittsburgh, and discover more Things To Do in Pittsburgh for a full Steel City experience. For even more trip inspiration—from upcoming events to hidden gems—visit VisitPittsburgh.com.
Have you explored the Andy Warhol Museum or found another Pittsburgh art spot that inspired you? Share your favorite creative moment in the comments and pass this post along to fellow travelers planning their own colorful visit to the Burgh.
