The rare Andy Warhol photographs on show for the first time ever

Fotografiska New York's new exhibit 'Photo Factory' contains some of the iconic artist's never-before-seen polaroids, hand-stitched photos and films

Few can claim they entertain fruit in the same way they do Dolly Parton — save for Andy Warhol. The era-defining artist’s simple pairing of a white background and his polaroid camera made him a great equaliser of sorts: “You see him treat some of the most famous people of their time — Grace Jones, Debbie Harry, Keith Haring — the same way he’s treating banal subjects like bananas,” says Amanda Hajjar, the organiser of Warhol’s latest exhibit, Photo Factory, at Fotografiska New York. Perhaps you want to get a glimpse of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s crotch from 1983? Or revel in a 1982 Jane Fonda (because of course)? Whatever your pleasure, the 124-piece show doubles as Warhol’s visual diary across mediums; from his hand-stitched photography work to his films.  

Few can claim they entertain fruit in the same way they do Dolly Parton — save for Andy Warhol. The era-defining artist’s simple pairing of a white background and his polaroid camera made him a great equaliser of sorts: “You see him treat some of the most famous people of their time — Grace Jones, Debbie Harry, Keith Haring — the same way he’s treating banal subjects like bananas,” says Amanda Hajjar, the organiser of Warhol’s latest exhibit, Photo Factory, at Fotografiska New York. Perhaps you want to get a glimpse of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s crotch from 1983? Or revel in a 1982 Jane Fonda (because of course)? Whatever your pleasure, the 124-piece show doubles as Warhol’s visual diary across mediums; from his hand-stitched photography work to his films.  

As for the why now, Fotografiska purposefully reacquainted us with Warhol following a period of time marked by fatigue, grief and isolation. “New York is coming out of a tough moment,” shares Amanda. “We’re getting back into the rhythm of things as a city, and Warhol allows us to have this celebratory moment.” Given the artist’s decades in New York, the curatorial team felt he was an emblem of reentry and, quite simply, much needed play. Between his legendary work (and mere existence) and the breadth of subjects and scenes Warhol captured, Photo Factory brings to life the characters of a beloved New York.

Andy Warhol: Photo Factory is open now through January 23, 2022 at Fotografiska New York.