Howdy Doody By Andy Warhol

Title: Howdy Doody - 1981
Size 95cm x 95cm
Unframed
The works are publisher stamped on the reverse

Howdy Doody was a popular freckle-faced marionette in the children’s television show Howdy Doody, which aired in the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s and incorporated circus and Western frontier themes.

Howdy Doody is part of Warhol’s Myths portfolio, which also included characters such as Superman, Mickey Mouse, and Dracula.

Unlike many of his well-known works which were appropriated from the mass media, Warhol’s reproduction of Howdy Doody’s image is based on a photograph of the original Howdy Doody that Warhol took himself.

The myths Warhol presents are well known. Their roots are in ancient beliefs, folklore, allegorical tales, and are based on traditional stories and media creations. They represent fantasies, dreams, hopes and fears.

Included in the series are: Dracula, Howdy Doody, Mammy, Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, Superman, The Shadow, The Star, The Witch and Uncle Sam. Most of Warhol's myths are derived from photographs he has taken especially for this series.