SOUTHAMPTON.- Southampton is getting ready to paint the town this coming Sunday (27 March), when it opens a major exhibition by Andy Warhol (1928 – 1987), one of the giants of 20th century art.

Nearly 200 works, including paintings, prints, posters, photographs and film, will be displayed across two of the city’s most prestigious art galleries, Southampton City Art Gallery and the John Hansard Gallery at the University of Southampton. The works on display are part of ARTIST ROOMS, a new collection of modern and contemporary art held by Tate and National Galleries of Scotland for the nation.

Following the successes of 2009 and 2010, 21 museums and galleries across the UK (including 17 venues outside of London and Edinburgh) in 2011 will be showing ARTIST ROOMS exhibitions and displays from the collection assembled by the art collector and curator, Anthony d’Offay. ARTIST ROOMS is owned jointly by Tate and National Galleries of Scotland and was established through The d’Offay Donation in 2008, with the assistance of the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the Art Fund and the Scottish and British Governments.

ARTIST ROOMS is being shared with galleries and museums throughout the UK thanks to the support of the Art Fund - the national fundraising charity for works of art, and the Scottish Government. ARTIST ROOMS On Tour with the Art Fund has been devised to enable this collection to reach and inspire new audiences across the country, particularly young people.

This free exhibition will explore Warhol’s fascination with fame and celebrity, giving visitors an overview of his work from 1951 until his death in 1987. Southampton City Art Gallery will explore contemporary culture and icons by exhibiting major paintings and over 100 prints and posters, alongside an Andy Warhol ‘Factory’ style activity space for young people and families.

The University of Southampton’s John Hansard Gallery will focus on Warhol’s hugely influential film and photography, showcasing rarely-seen stitched photographs and self-portraits, alongside iconic film works from the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh and four striking photographs of Warhol by Robert Mapplethorpe, also from the ARTIST ROOMS collection.

Councillor John Hannides, Cabinet Member for Resources, Leisure and Culture, said: “This is one of the most significant art exhibitions ever to open in Southampton. It doesn’t matter if you are Warhol’s biggest fan or are completely new to his work. A great deal of attention has been paid to make sure there is something for everyone and I would encourage the whole city to get involved with what is expected to be a terrific exhibition.”

Stephen Foster, Director of the John Hansard Gallery, adds: “Together with the City Art Gallery we are thrilled to showcase the work of this iconic 20th century artist. It is also fantastic for the city to work with major national partners such as the Tate, Scottish National Galleries and the Art Fund.”

To accompany the exhibition a wide range of workshops and events have been organised for all ages. Highlights include weekly Gallery tours, Arts Award drop-in sessions for young people, a two-day Warhol conference in June and a variety of fun holiday activities.

Other citywide organisations are also getting involved. The annual Ejector Seat Arts Festival on Saturday 4 June will feature a Warhol-related fashion event and local venue Pop have organised a 15-week programme of Warhol-inspired events, including music and spoken word events.