Roy Lichtenstein (19231997), painter, sculptor, printmaker Research Paper

Roy Lichtenstein (19231997), painter, sculptor, printmaker - Research Paper Example Lichtenstein created a wide array of work and much of it has gained positions of prominence among art theorists. Predominantly his works implement traditional painting techniques, but he also implements cartoon-illustration methods. One of Lichtenstein’s prominent works is ‘Stepping Out’ (currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art). While the work is slightly obscure in meaning, it seems that objective meaning can be gleamed from thorough analysis. Specifically, Lichtenstein seems to have created this artwork to project societys stereotypes on women. Lichtenstein created the work in 1978 in New York City. This work implements Lichtenstein’s traditional comic book style, while adopting a slight cubist aesthetic. It is created with oil and magna on canvas and measures 86 x 70 in. Lila Acheson Wallace purchased the work in 1980. The work then passed through a series of accessions before finally becoming situated at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Aesthetic analysis of Lichtenstein’s ‘Stepping Out’ reveals a considerable number of insights. In terms of meaning, interpretations differ widely from different critics. Indeed, the very post-modern elements of the wo rk invite such multiple-critical voices. In terms of objective elements one recognizes that there is a degree of inter-textuality in the work. The male in the work is based on Fernand Leger’s 1944 painting ‘Three Musicians;’ however Lichtenstein’s version is the mirror image of Leger’s earlier work ("Metropolitan Museum of Art -- Stepping Out."). Additionally the female in the painting is clearly influenced by Picasso’s cubist style, in the multi-dimensional and slightly surrealist juxtapositions. In terms of the specific meaning the primary emphasis is the society’s stereotypes on women. This perspective has been supported by art theorists who note, â€Å"this work is a criticism of how a man has often wanted to see a woman