Peter Max

1937, Berlin, Germany

Peter Max, a celebrated illustrator and graphic artist known for his vibrant contributions to Pop Art and Neo-Expressionism. Born in Germany and raised in various countries, Max’s early exposure to diverse cultures and art forms shaped his unique creative vision. Settling in New York City in the 1950s, he honed his skills at prestigious art institutions and later co-founded The Daly & Max Studio, where his iconic “un-cola” advertising campaign for 7-Up catapulted him to fame. Max’s prolific career includes significant exhibitions, the creation of presidential artworks, and official artist roles at major events. His enduring legacy reflects his boundless creativity and profound impact on contemporary art.

Artist Bio

Peter Max, born in Berlin, Germany, in 1937, is an acclaimed illustrator and graphic artist renowned for his contributions to Pop Art and Neo-Expressionism. His artistic journey is marked by an exuberant use of vibrant colors that have become his signature. Max’s early life was a nomadic one, as his family moved from Nazi Germany to Shanghai, China, where they resided for a decade. Their travels then took them to Haifa, Israel, followed by a brief stay in Paris, France. It was during his time in Paris that Max’s fascination with art took root, as he immersed himself in art classes at the Louvre Museum.

In 1953, Max’s family settled in Bensonhurst, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, marking a pivotal moment in his artistic development. Here, in the heart of the vibrant New York art scene, Max embarked on his formal art training at the Art Students League of New York under the guidance of Frank J. Reilly (American, 1906–1967). His pursuit of artistic excellence led him to further studies at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

In 1962, Max, in collaboration with Tom Daly, established a small art studio in New York City. Their creative partnership expanded when Don Rubbo (American, b.1926) joined them at The Daly & Max Studio. Together, they crafted compelling advertising imagery. Max’s artistic acclaim surged with his iconic advertising campaign for 7-Up, known as “un-cola,” in 1968. The year 1970 witnessed a significant milestone as the M.H. de Young Memorial Museum in San Francisco, California, inaugurated an exhibition titled “The World of Peter Max,” showcasing a diverse array of products and posters he had designed.

In 1976, Max embarked on his celebrated Statue of Liberty series to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States. Over the years, his artistry has reached the highest echelons of American society, as he has created works for six U.S. presidents and displayed his art in various U.S. embassies. One of his most iconic creations, the “100 Clintons” installation, was unveiled in 1993.

Beyond his remarkable portfolio, Peter Max has held the prestigious role of official artist for numerous major events, including the Grammy Awards, the 1994 World Cup, and the Super Bowl. His striking painting “44 Obamas,” which depicted Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States, made its debut on The Early Show.

Today, Peter Max continues to thrive as an artist, living and working in the dynamic artistic landscape of New York City. His enduring legacy is a testament to his visionary creativity, vivid use of color, and the profound impact his art has had on the world of contemporary art.

Experience

“100 Clintons” Installation (1993): In 1993, Peter Max gained further recognition for his “100 Clintons” installation, a striking and memorable artistic portrayal of the Clinton family. This installation added another dimension to his prolific career, showcasing his ability to capture contemporary political and cultural moments.

“44 Obamas” Painting (2008): In 2008, Peter Max unveiled his painting “44 Obamas,” which depicted Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States. The artwork made its debut on The Early Show, reaffirming Max’s ability to capture significant moments in American history through his art.