Los Angeles artist Robert Dowd’s paintings of money and postage stamps were at the center of the California Pop Art movement. In 1962, his work was included in a group show at the Pasadena Art Museum in what became the first exhibition of Pop Art in the United States. Curated by J. Cheryl Bookout, Rancho Cucamonga’s CCAA Museum of Art is the first institution to host selected Dowd money since that 1962 exhibition. One glance at his work may leave you wondering why he’s been a frequent bottom-dweller of the Pop Art movement.
The U.S. State Department didn’t like Dowd’s misanthropic take on American money, presidents and landmarks: Officials tried to arrest him in 1963 on counterfeiting charges—even though his money paintings were 3- to 4-feet high. The public, however, mostly took to Dowd’s vision (if not as loyally as they had to his contemporary, Andy Warhol), appreciating the ironic takes on definitive America symbolism. With in-your-face grace, Dowd strips away the prestige and muscle behind the almighty dollar, allowing us to see the commonplace notes with fresh eyes and new meaning. Through his perspective, money is no longer a mundane-looking weapon that topples kings and kingdoms, but rather a comic and curious cultural accessory ripe for revision and comment. (Stacy Davies)
What: The Pop Art Money of Robert Dowd.
When/Where: Noon to 5 p.m. Fri-Sun through June 13 at the CCAA Museum of Art, Filippi Winery, 12467 Baseline Road, Rancho Cucamonga.
Info: Call (909) 463-3733, or visit www.ccaamuseum.org. It’s free.
