Jeff Koons, born in 1955, displayed an early interest in art. As a teenager, he called Salvador Dali's hotel and arranged to meet the artist. He was inspired by Dali and went on to study art in college. Koons supported himself with various jobs, including working at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, working the information desk at MoMA and as a commodities broker in New York. He gained recognition in the 1980s with his "The New" and "Equilibrium" series, and achieved international fame with his "Banality" series, which challenged notions of art and taste. Koons's work often explores themes of consumer culture, mass production, and the relationship between art and commerce. He is known for his meticulous approach, often employing skilled artisans to create his sculptures. Koons's "Pink Panther" (1988) exemplifies his exploration of popular culture and kitsch, challenging traditional notions of art and value.

Related episodes:

Salvador Dali | The Persistence of Memory

Andy Warhol

Roy Lichtenstein | Look Mickey

AP Art History Cram Session playlist on Spotify

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