"I'm truly blessed to be doing what I've always wanted – CREATE. I have found a freedom that is hard to put into words. I always wondered about my projects – which artists are working on what, and which directions should I take? I don't even think of those things now. I passionately go into my studio and ask myself, what would I like to create today?"
Steve Kaufman, born on December 29, 1960, in the Bronx, New York, was a legendary pop artist and a prominent figure in contemporary art. Recognized as one of the last true pop artists, Kaufman left an exceptional legacy, celebrated for his unique blend of popular culture, advertising, and graffiti art within the Pop Art genre.
At 19, Steve Kaufman began working at Andy Warhol's Factory, a pivotal experience that profoundly influenced his artistic trajectory. Inspired by the patriarch of Pop Art, Kaufman developed a distinctive visual language marked by elements of fame, image appropriation, juxtaposition, and abstraction. His bold and vibrant palette adorned numerous paintings depicting iconic symbols and cultural figures, including Lady Liberty, the Coca-Cola logo, and portraits of celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and Elvis.
Despite his association with Pop Art royalty and a turbulent youth linked to the graffiti culture alongside Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, Kaufman's life was marked by resilience and artistic determination. He faced numerous challenges, including surviving shootings, stabbings, poisonings, scalping, multiple traffic accidents, and severe health problems. Despite these adversities, Kaufman remained committed to his artistic and humanitarian endeavors.
In his studio, Kaufman engaged in philanthropic activities by employing individuals from marginalized backgrounds, including the homeless, convicted, and gang-involved youth. This commitment to giving opportunities to those in need reflected his belief in the transformative power of art.
On February 12, 2010, Steve Kaufman passed away in Vail, Colorado, while preparing for an exhibition. His death resulted from a fatal heart attack following a series of strokes. Kaufman's philosophy of continuous creation and passion for art remained unwavering throughout his life. Despite his challenges, he continued to paint and exhibit his work, embodying the essence of his ultimate dream - to create freely.
In his own words, Kaufman expressed gratitude for the freedom he found in creating art: "I'm truly blessed to be doing what I've always wanted – CREATE. I have found a freedom that is hard to put into words. I always wondered about my projects – which artists are working on what, and which directions should I take? I don't even think of those things now. I passionately go into my studio and ask myself, what would I like to create today?"