Andy Warhol Posters 'n' Pop

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The Factory "Machine"

Andy Warhol's "Factory"

In 1963, Warhol said in an interview that he wanted to work "like a machine." In 1964, he moved to the Factory. This old factory building became his studio and a favorite hang-out for artists and film stars. Andy is said to have had a very committed work ethic, and is reported to have worked sometimes from 9-5 seven days a week.

It was at the Factory that Andy was shot in June 1968. Valerie Solanis, a Factory groupie and founder of the SCUM (Society for Cutting Up Men), marched into the Factory and nearly killed him with a shot to his chest.

Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat

Andy's Superstars
Andy used his own fame to help make other people famous. In 1963, Warhol began to produce independent films, using his entourage at the Factory.

Although his Superstars are mostly composed of the actors found in his films, Andy is credited for helping to make musicians and artists famous as well. Among his Superstars are Lou Reed, Candy Darling and Ultra Violet. For more on Andy's Superstars, visit Warholstars, a site that contains a good collection of bios and photos of the Superstars.

Velvet Underground
Andy Warhol met The Velvet Underground at a club and hired them to play live for some of his silent movies. They became part of The Exploding Plastic Inevitable, a performance that involved movies, music, dancers and a light show.

Velvet Underground

Film director Paul Morrissey thought it would be a good idea for the Factory to have an in-house rock band and Andy decided to supply them with new equipment and rehearsal space. He suggested the band use model and Factory superstar Nico. At first reluctant, the band decided she could sing and play tambourine. Andy received producer credits for their first album, The Velvet Underground and Nico (1967), and painted the banana on its cover.

Studio 54
Andy was known for inspiring many at his regular night-life appearances. What might not be known is that he conducted a good part of his business at parties and discos. A regular at Studio 54, he often met here with advertisers and potential clients. Among the other regulars during Andy's Studio days were Liza Minelli, Mick and Bianca Jagger, Steve Rubell and Calvin Klein.

Religion
Most people don't know that Andy was a practicing Catholic. He went to church every Sunday and spent holidays in soup kitchens. A lot of his friends were also Catholic.

Andy's Extensive Collection
After his death, one of the most extensive collections ever put together by one person was found at Andy's home - a vast compendium of popular culture never seen before. His will stipulated that the proceeds from these "leftovers" should fund the Andy Warhol Foundation, a foundation that helps emerging artists.

For more see the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc..