ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM : PITTSBURGH

Over Valentine's Day, we flew to Pittsburgh to visit Trip's sister, Cristin. It's the hometown of my favorite artist - Warhol! 

I studied art history in art school and was immediately drawn to the modern art movement. Kahlo, Pollock and Warhol were my favorites then and still are now. I didn't even know that Andy Warhol was from Pittsburgh until we planned a trip out there for Valentine's Day. Trip's sister took us to a Penguins game, The Warhol Museum, The Mattress Factory art museum and all around town for delicious food in unassuming places. We spent an entire day just walking around the city which is my favorite way to experience new places.

I could have stayed at the Warhol museum forever. It's such a cool space. The museum store is packed with modern art goodies and fun gifts. A great museum store is always indicative of a good museum. I loved seeing all of the paintings that I had only ever seen in my art school books. Of course there are the iconic Campbell's Soup cans, Marilyn's, Elvis's and self-portraits. But there were a ton of other unexpected gems on display there.

Some of my favorite items in the museum were just random knick-knacks from his factory or home. They have his wigs, clothing, cookies jars, hand-written letters to friends, and framed newspaper articles about his successes and failures. There was so much amazing photography throughout his life. I would do anything to get into the archives room at the museum.

One of my fascinations with Warhol is how rare of an artist and person he was. He was a shy socialite in the booming era of modern art. He was strange and unique. He created a style that had never been seen before and incorporated some of the most famous people in history in his work. He was a painter, graphic designer, screen printer, illustrator, photographer, videographer, and the list goes on. He was misunderstood and glorified all at the same time. I love everything about him, but mostly his insane understanding and perspective of color. The museum is just one big burst of color that I couldn't get enough of. It was also really special to be there with Trip and Cristin and share that experience with them. Being there feels like knowing Andy...sounds funny but you'll see.

Pittsburgh may not be on the top of your list of places to travel, but I'd highly recommend it. For any art major, the Warhol Museum is a must-see and I will definitely return.