Title of Artwork: “Bea Arthur Naked”

Artwork by John Currin

Year Created 1991

Summary of Bea Arthur Naked

This picture of a well-known television actress was painted by Currin before to his rise to prominence. Arthur would have been in her late sixties at the time, while he was in his late twenties.

All About Bea Arthur Naked

Comedian’s sharp wit, matronly hairstyle and loud voice make her an unusual option for this type of photograph, which usually portrays a youthful, feminine figure. Currin does not show Arthur in a sexualized or erotic manner, but rather poses a thought-provoking challenge to the audience.

In putting Arthur naked on a plain yellow background, he questions the ageism and artistic traditions connected with sexuality in much of late twentieth-century popular culture.

Information Citations

En.wikipedia.org, https://en.wikipedia.org/.