Roy Lichtenstein (1923–1997) was an American pop artist renowned for his distinctive style that drew inspiration from comic strips and commercial art. Born in New York City, he studied at the Arts Students League and later served in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, Lichtenstein returned to academia, earning a Bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University and a Master’s degree in fine arts.
Lichtenstein emerged as a leading figure in the pop art movement in the early 1960s, known for his large-scale paintings that mimic the visual techniques of comic books, including Ben-Day dots and bold lines. Works such as "Whaam!" and "Drowning Girl" exemplify his ability to blend high art with popular culture, often incorporating irony and commentary on consumerism and mass media.
His use of commercial techniques and subject matter challenged traditional notions of fine art, making him a key figure in redefining art’s relationship with culture. Lichtenstein’s work has been widely exhibited and is included in major collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Tate Modern in London.