Two New York exhibitions assess Tom Wesselmann's career from 1960s Pop to final Sunset Nudes

Two exhibitions in New York celebrate the artistic journey of Tom Wesselmann, emphasizing both his early Pop Art and his later creations. L&M Arts is showcasing his renowned 1960s works through April 15, while the Robert Miller Gallery will display the Sunset Nudes series until April 22. Wesselmann, who passed away in December 2004, was a key figure in the Pop Art movement, alongside Andy Warhol, with a focus on the female form. His art contrasts high and low culture, with early works hinting at nihilism and later pieces showing ties to art history. Noteworthy pieces include "Great American Nude #92" (1967) and "Sunset Nude with Matisse Odalisque" (2003), featuring humor and literalism. His later works are characterized by intricate sculptural reliefs and large-scale paintings that reflect a machine aesthetic.