margaret keane margaret keane self portrait

Margaret Keane: A True Artistic Icon

Margaret Keane is a name that has become synonymous with artistic genius and innovation. Her self-portrait, 'Tomorrow Forever,' is a testament to her incredible talent and creative vision. The painting, which depicts a multicultural throng of sad-eyed urchins standing on a celestial staircase, is a masterpiece that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.

Margaret's artistic journey began early in life, when she would spend hours sketching and drawing as a child. Her passion for art only grew stronger with time, and by the 1950s, she was making a name for herself in San Francisco's North Beach arts scene. It was during this period that she met her future husband, Walter Keane, who would play a significant role in shaping her artistic career.

Walter, a charismatic and cunning individual, took credit for Margaret's work, telling the world that he was the true artist behind the 'big eyes' style that had become so popular. He even went so far as to ban Margaret from having her own friends, controlling every aspect of her life. Despite these challenges, Margaret continued to paint, pouring her heart and soul into each piece.

The success of her art was not limited to the art world alone. Hollywood stars such as Natalie Wood and Joan Crawford were clamoring for her services, with Walter telling them that all they needed to do was provide a photograph to have their portraits painted by him. The result was a series of iconic works that continue to be celebrated today.

Despite the challenges she faced, Margaret's artistic talent and creative genius continued to shine through. She went on to influence countless artists, including some of the most prominent figures in the art world. Her work has been influenced by masters such as Van Gogh, Picasso, and Modigliani, and her own unique style continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Margaret's impact on popular culture is undeniable. Her 'big eyes' style has influenced everything from toy design to cartoons, with characters like Little Miss No Name Dolls, Blythe dolls, and the Powerpuff Girls all bearing a striking resemblance to her iconic works. The big-eyed movement that she helped start in the early 1960s continues to this day, with artists such as Lee, Gig, Maio, Ozz Franca, Igor Pantuhoff, and Eve all drawing inspiration from her work.

Andy Warhol himself praised Margaret's art, saying 'I think what Keane has done is terrific! If it were bad, so many people wouldn’t like it.' And indeed, her work continues to be loved and admired by the world. Today, Margaret Keane is recognized as one of the most successful living artists of all time, with a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence for generations to come.

As we look back on Margaret's incredible life and career, it is clear that she was a true artistic icon. Her self-portrait, 'Tomorrow Forever,' remains a testament to her talent, creativity, and perseverance in the face of adversity. We can only hope that future generations will continue to be inspired by her work and legacy, and that her art will remain a shining example of what it means to truly be an artist.

Margaret keane margaret keane self portrait