A momentous exhibition is set to debut, presenting a collection of Jamie Wyeth's previously concealed portraits of two monumental figures of the 20th century: the Pop Art visionary Andy Warhol and the ballet luminary Rudolf Nureyev. These compelling works, created between 1976 and 1977, lay hidden for decades after a joint exhibition with Warhol, and are now being unveiled to the public for the very first time. This solo presentation at Schoelkopf Gallery offers an unprecedented opportunity to delve into the artist's unique perspective and his deep connection with his subjects.
Schoelkopf Gallery Presents Rare Glimpse into Wyeth's Artistic Journey
The highly anticipated exhibition, titled \"Jamie Wyeth: Portraits of Andy Warhol and Rudolf Nureyev,\" will officially commence on September 12, 2025, and run through October 17, 2025, at the esteemed Schoelkopf Gallery, located at 390 Broadway, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10013, United States. This marks the gallery's first significant solo showcase of Wyeth's portraiture, highlighting a remarkable cache of his signature silken realist renderings. Nearly five decades ago, these captivating pieces were carefully put away by Wyeth's late wife, Phyllis Mills Wyeth, following their initial appearance in the 1976 exhibition "Portraits of Each Other."
The exhibition vividly recounts Wyeth's artistic dialogue with Warhol during the vibrant Factory era. In 1976, both artists embarked on a unique exchange, painting each other for a lively exhibition at New York's Coe Kerr Gallery. This event drew immense crowds, so much so that The New York Times playfully noted, \"At Gallery, The Crowd Was Ogling Itself.\" While Warhol's silkscreen portrait captured Wyeth with a typical celebrity aura, Wyeth’s artwork offered an unvarnished, deeply human portrayal of Warhol, emphasizing the profound mutual respect and artistic communication that existed between them.
In 1977, Wyeth shifted his focus to the legendary Rudolf Nureyev, cultivating an unexpected bond when the renowned dancer resided at Wyeth's Maine farmhouse. Wyeth famously described Nureyev’s powerful stage presence as akin to \"having a panther in the house.\" During this period, Wyeth produced some of his most vibrant and intensely energetic canvases. The exhibition will also feature other significant works from Wyeth's extensive career and insightful scholarly contributions by Patricia Junker, offering a comprehensive look into Wyeth's persistent fascination with the personal histories and "ghosts" that inhabit his subjects.
This exhibition serves as a profound reminder that the most compelling art often emerges from authentic human connection. Jamie Wyeth's dedication to capturing the inner world of his subjects, rather than merely their outward appearance, transcends the canvas, inviting viewers to engage with the profound intimacy and raw emotion embedded within each stroke. It’s a testament to the power of portraiture to reveal not just faces, but souls, and to the enduring legacy of artists who dare to see beyond the surface.