American pop art icon to visit Marlow art gallery next week

An American pop art pioneer will appear at a Marlow gallery next week in a rare visit to the UK.

One of the original pioneers of the pop art movement, James Francis Gill, is launching his new series, Women in Water, at Castle Fine Art on Market Square.

Guests will have the opportunity to meet him and view an exhibition of his original works on October 7.

A peer of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, Gill rose to fame in the early 1960s as one of the first artists to combine photographic figurative art with abstract compositions, which contributed to the establishment of ‘pop art’.  

Born in Texas in 1934, James Francis Gill studied architecture at university before moving to Los Angeles in 1962, when his 'Marilyn Triptych' was acquired by the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

The artwork depicts the story of Marilyn Monroe’s life across three images, and Gill’s exploration of modern celebrity culture became more poignant in 1972 when he chose to step away from the limelight.   

Women in Water was first conceived in the 1960s and sees the artist present a series of female figures immersed in water.

Ahead of his appearance in Marlow, James Francis Gill said: “It’s a true pleasure to return to the UK with this collection – I look forward to sharing it with an audience that embraces bold expression and timeless beauty in the same way I do.”

Guests will have the opportunity to take home newly released limited-edition artworks alongside original studies and canvases.

A specially commissioned short film will also be screened, offering a deeper glimpse into Gill’s legacy. 

Frankie Washington, Head of Creative at Castle Fine Art, said: “We are honoured to welcome this genuine icon of modern art to our galleries.

"Gill’s influence spans generations, and this deeply personal collection is a reminder of his enduring relevance. It offers us an intimate glimpse into the mind of an artist who has never stopped evolving over six decades.”

James Francis Gill will appear at Castle Fine Art in Market Square between 6 to 8pm.

Attendees can register their interest here.