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Andy Warhol Museum
Category: Arts & Entertainment Museums Museums [Edit]
117 Sandusky StPittsburgh, PA 15212
Neighborhood: North Side
(412) 237-8300
- Hours:
Tue-Sun 10 am - 5 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
104 reviews for Andy Warhol Museum
Review Highlights
"Don't forget to see the Silver Clouds piece."
(in 22 reviews)
"they use artwork from other artists who have been inspired..."
(in 7 reviews)
"There are seven floors and plenty to look at on each."
(in 9 reviews)
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104 reviews in English
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Review from Allison B.
Saint Louis, MO
On this current trip home, I visited the Warhol yet again. The museum still is easily a five-star attraction. From the moment you walk through the doors and have poppies and cats and everything else thrust into your face, you'll be transported to a dream of creative, accessible art. Still brilliant.
Yesterday's visit was specifically for the Alex Ross exhibit ; I didn't wander through the rest of the museum like I usually do. Holy 15 minutes, Batman! This is the best, most thorough guest exhibit I've had the pleasure of seeing at the Warhol! It's such a finely curated collection of canvas, 3-d models, sketches, childhood drawings and final comic covers. The collection represented Ross' work from age 4 forward, and the accompanying information near each piece really brought everything to life. Go for the paper dolls he made as a tike. Go for the Justice and Crisis variations. Go for the Iron Man mask model. Go for the dizzying perspective on paintings of characters in NYC or Gotham. Go for the Mythology covers. Go for it all. Just go. REPEAT: DO NOT MISS THIS!
The gift shop has some great items corresponding to the Ross exhibit. Don't miss the Warhol/Ross comic for just $2.99, which contains info about the artists and the exhibit. BEWARE, though: The gift shop doesn't sell bags/boards like you'd expect for this product. Seriously, it's a REALLY idiotic mistake to sell comics but not the proper protection to go with them. I mean, this well-considered exhibit especially is going to attract nerds and collectors. And the museum didn't even consider how those buyers would get their prizes home? I wasn't looking for longboxes - just some $0.25 bags and boards. Big fail.
There are some generic superhero things, too. I stocked up on pins (both Marvel and DC). The shop also has a ton of items by Warhol and other artists. Be sure to look down for clearance items. I found sale stuff under the back table and on the shelf under the t-shirt display.Listed in: On the Road Again
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/17/2011
Pittsburgh, you have such a gem in the Warhol Museum. And man, do I miss it.
The Warhol is a great… Read more »
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Review from Nicole C.
12/19/2011
The Andy Warhol Museum is a MUST-visit in Pittsburgh, and it can be appreciated by anyone whether you're familiar with his work or not.
There are 7 floors of exhibits that showcase his eclectic pop art. It's very well-curated with each floor highlighting a different aspect of his life and work. They range from whimsical, to funny, to beautiful, to weird, and some are straight up creepy, but all are interesting and very enjoyable.
The museum also emphasizes his relationships and influences to others. To name a few: Candy Darling, John Lennon, and Alex Ross. AND if you go within the next month, you'll be able to check out the Alex Ross Heroes & Villains Exhibit which features paintings, sketches, and designs by this phenomenal comic book artist.
Things to note:
1) Photography is NOT allowed inside the museum.
2) You will not find the Campbell Soup Can paintings here.
3) Admission is discounted for students. (Yes, I am still milking my college ID for all it's worth!) -
Review from Sandra F.
12/2/2011
Walking in I was expecting less. But I did not know that Andy Warhol had so many talents!
Literally, we were in the museum for more than 2 hours. I was amazed with the art and how his colors pop.
I was inspired that I bought the Big Shot camera and have not stopped shooting portraiture since then.
Andy Warhol is an icon with true talents! A must see if you are in the pittsburgh area. -
Review from Navita R.
1/26/2012
Talk about rude staff!!
Being a huge Andy Worhol fan, I was really excited to check it out. I flew 8 hours to drop my bags and got my arse to this museam. I was really dissapointed with the outlay and the general 'lack of pizazz', and there seemed to be a hughe stench of mr.clean. I'm glad my student card worked out here or else I would have paid $15 for something that wasn't quite worth it. After we were done I asked the staff to call a cab for us, and they were quite rude about it. One even slammed the phone on the counter and left. I've been to art museams around the world and this byfar has been the worst one I've been to.
The art was amazing. staff ruined it. -
Review from Katie B.
McKeesport, PA
1/20/2012
One of the top places to visit on your trip to Pittsburgh- it is a place where you transform yourself into the world of the Iconic Pop Artist- Andy himself. You truly see how his simple use of every day objects transformed our world of advertising to this day. He was a genius and you see him come alive when you visit this museum. My favorite thing to do when visiting is to sit in the middle of the Silver Pillow room and just have the pillows floating all around me- relaxing and refreshing.
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Review from Sarah B.
Huntington, WV
10/20/2011
The artwork was really cool, but the staff was among the rudest I have ever met.
The "no photography" signs are small and not obvious. When I took a photo (with no flash), I was immediately approached by a gallery representative. I apologized and put away my camera. The gallery employees, however, decided to follow me around and even yell at us from across the room. They continually accused us of taking photographs when we weren't.
I have been in more museums than I can count and this was by far the rudest.
Additionally, the admission prices were very high ($15), especially considering 2 of the 7 floors were closed. And, might I add.. I'm not sure why they are so snobby, I had seen almost every item in the museum at other locations. Pass!! -
Review from Sam F.
9/7/2011
This has got to be the funnest museum I have ever been to. Even if a non-art fan is tagging along, the uniqueness of the museum can pull in even the harshest critic.
I have always been a huge Warhol fan, but I will admit, when seeing his camouflage prints for example on prints or posters, I didn't think much of it. However, when I saw it for myself up close, it was really fabulous. His images are truly beautiful. I will say that if you take some time and learn about Andy personally before you check out the museum, when you see a lot of his work you will say to yourself "Ahh, I know the reasoning behind this." Although, I think some of his work is kind of random, because as he said "It gives me something to do." Gotta love him.
Andy wanted his work to reach everyone, because to him, art wasn't meant to be elitist, he wanted it to be accessible. He made Marilyn Monroe prints in every color so that everyone could have a piece of her in their lives. Your favorite color is pink? There's a Marilyn in that color. Your favorite color is blue? There's a Marilyn in that color. Portraying American life and culture was what he loved to do. It would be easy to come up with your own judgments about Andy after viewing some of his more sexual pieces, such as in film, but he stayed true to himself. The man could create a "Torso from Behind" print and still frequently volunteer his time at local soup kitchens in New York.
So when you go to the museum, expect to have a blast. As everyone else has stated, the Silver Clouds exhibit is beautiful, and so much fun. It makes you feel like a kid again. You will leave the museum with just an all around happy feeling. -
Review from Michelle M.
Las Vegas, NV
10/9/2011
I'm not sure what to say about the Warhol museum other than that it is amazing and wonderful and one of the very best museums I've ever visited. It's not a typical art museum where you wander around and look at paintings all day- because of course, Andy Warhol was not a typical artist. There's art and video and interaction and it's all so fascinating and absorbing. Being able to walk around in the Silver Clouds room and touch and play with the installation made me feel like a little kid, and it was fantastic to see so many iconic pieces of art up close and in person for the first time. The museum incorporates Warhol's life with his art so you walk away with a sense of knowing both the artist and the person. And there is so much to watch and experience that I could have stayed all day!
We went on Friday night, when the museum is open late with half-price admission and there's a bar in the lobby where you can enjoy a cocktail or two. We made a special stop in Pittsburgh on the way back from the Jersey Shore just to go here and it was absolutely worth it! If I find myself in Pittsburgh again I will stop back in heartbeat to see what's new. -
Review from Kerry H.
8/17/2011 ROTD 9/27/2011
If you have one day to spend in Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol Museum should be on your list.
There are seven floors--you start at the top and work your way down. (Be prepared to pass several taxidermy specimens of Warhol's along the way down the stairs.) Much of Warhol's art in these museum changes periodically as pieces are loaned to and from other institutions, so it's always fresh. Most of the multimedia displays are permanent, as well as the collection of Warhol's personal items--from his lipstick to his diploma--and "Silver Clouds." "Silver Clouds" is a 1966 interactive display of huge pillow-like balloons that float around in the one room where touching the art is encouraged. You'll feel like a kid swatting and batting the "clouds."
There are always new traveling exhibits featuring the works of other pop, avant-garde, and modern artists. Warhol founded Interview magazine and there are tons of display copies to check out in the museum as well. The gift shop is always worth a stop--I never fail to find a gift or card for some upcoming birthday...and maybe a little something for myself, too!
Even if you aren't a fan of Warhol's work, his young life epitomized industrial Pittsburgh: his parents were working-class immigrants, his father worked in a coal mine. He grew up in the same South Oakland neighborhood as football legend Dan Marino. Warhol attended the now gone Schenley High School and the university that is now Carnegie-Mellon.
If you're from out of town, consider starting at Penn & 7th Downtown. Sit in the eyeball chairs and eat a hot dog from the stand coincidentally named Andy's. Walk towards the yellow bridges, stopping to check out the Pittsburgh transformer statue and the view of PNC Park (to your left) and the old Heinz Factory (to your right) across the river. Stroll across the aptly named The Andy Warhol Bridge until you hit the museum.
Tip: The museum hosts Good Fridays from 5-10pm on every Friday, where there is 1/2 off admissions and a cash bar downstairs.Listed in: Pittsburgh
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Review from Stacey S.
Waltham, MA
9/27/2011
I love Andy Warhol's Pop Art. I liked how he took the ordinary and turned them into something creative and accessible. And I was expecting to see that Andy Warhol.
There are multiple floors, but you start off on the first to learn about his childhood and how his art developed. I thought this was the most interesting gallery. After that, you proceed to the top floor and work you way down.
I'm not a fan of his films...they are just to obscure for me. So I was unimpressed by the entire floor devoted to them.
I did like seeing his Marilyn, Elvis and Gertrude Stein works. There were a few of his grocery boxes, but no Campbell's soup and no silver clouds on display. I was disappointed by this. When I'm going to see a Pop Artist, I'd really like to see more examples of his Pop Art. Also, I would say a fourth of the exhibits were from other artists. Bummer....
Not exactly worth the $15 admission price. Especially since two of the floors were closed. -
Review from Mike O.
Washington D.C., DC
7/27/2011
I live Washington, DC where the museums are free. I was shocked that the admission price was $15. The museum is on 7 floors. The collection is nice but the interactive wasn't work the day I visited. Also, usually in other states where have to pay to see museums they give me 1/2 price admission because inam deaf. You really do miss a lot not hearing the narratives, etc. Anyway, The Warhol museum doesnt have 1/2 price for deaf.
The cafe on the lower level was good. -
Review from Maher H.
7/15/2011
Andy Warhol was weird. Seriously, he was so weird! But in this case, weird = good = fun = pretty d*mn cool.
The Warhol is both a great introduction and in-depth study into the man and his works. Although any Pittsburgher can tell you he was one of ours, it's still amazing to see how influential he was once you get past the soup cans and hair. A great tribute to a true (pop) artistic icon. -
Review from DJ J.
6/22/2011
What a great place to enjoy and learn. Have visited a couple of times in the last few months and they have changed a few exhibits...which makes it even better!
What an eccentric. Fun to see and learn about the man and the art. An extensive collection of his work and some traveling exhibits.
Also, saw a few Burton Morris works...did not realize he was from the Burg.Listed in: Fun Places and some Culture in…
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Review from MacRae O.
5/30/2011 5 photos
When planning our trip to Pittsburgh, I was particularly excited to visit the Andy Warhol Museum. While I'm as familiar as the rest of the world with his iconic screen prints of soup cans and superstars, I knew little else of his work. Not to mention everything I knew about his unusual life came from "Factory Girl"...
The museum filled in all the blanks and then some. I didn't know Warhol had produced a few talk-show/magazine-esque television series, but a room full of monitors playing episodes fascinated. I didn't know he released films, but furniture from his factory and used as props on set told his film-making story. I didn't know anything of the transsexual Candy Darling, but a room full of her Warhol-snapped portraits, promotional stills, and correspondence brought her to life. I didn't know Warhol was considered one of the first artists to experiment with video art, but screen after screen of drag queens eating bananas and topless women sharing dinner recipes entranced.
Aside from those fabulous paintings of Campbell's cans and celebrities, my absolute favorite "piece" had to be "Silver Clouds": a room full of rectangular silver mylar balloons, buoyed by air currents from fans in the ceiling, an installation Warhol designed for a 1966 gallery show. Guests are encouraged to interact with the balloons as they glide and float through the small space. I felt like a little kid again, giggling as these cushions bumped my arms and legs, pushing them up and out. I kept envisioning Charlie Bucket and Grampa after consuming Fizzy Lifting Drinks in Wonka's factory.
A few floors are dedicated to temporary exhibits, one on masculinity in sports, another on God and religion, and a Yoko Ono installation titled "My Mommy Is Beautiful" on our visit.
Shocking, mundane, provocative, commonplace -- the art here runs the gamut. The Andy Warhol Museum is a fascinating homage to a fascinating man and a fascinating subculture, and worth a few hours of your time. -
Review from David K.
Pittsburgh, PA
8/3/2011
What I noticed about this museum is that everything I liked in it was not done by Andy Warhol.
That notwithstanding, this isn't a bad museum, but I'd skip it in favor of doing something else if I were visiting Pittsburgh for a week or less. -
Review from Callan W.
4/17/2011
You can be the most uncultured person in the world, and you still can enjoy the Warhol Museum. Warhol played to the public and knew how to make art accessible by making the ordinary extraordinary. This is definitely worth a visit.
I went here 5 or so years ago and different installations always stayed with me. The room of silver clouds for instance. You instantly become a small child when you play with this interactive piece. I just wish you could take pictures in that room. I also love the Keith Haring Elephant.
Another amazing part (which I don't remember from my first visit) is the multiple tv's set up playing episodes of Andy Warhol's TV show. You get to see great interviews of Deborah Harry, Keith Haring, Brooke Shields, and the Ramones. I never even knew these existed but now I am on the hunt for them. I could have spent the whole day in this section.
I popped into the cafe for a quick cup of coffee and cookie. They have a small selection of sammies and salads too.
Andy said that in the future everyone will be famous for 15 minutes. Did he predict youtube? Perhaps. Go see his genius and decide for yourself.Listed in: Pittsburgh: Be steel my heart
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Review from Julie D.
2/27/2011 ROTD 7/23/2011
After the recent death of Mr. Warhol's brother, John Warhola, I had a renewed interest in visiting this museum. Granted, Andy was a tiny bit before my time... And I have to admit, that other than brightly colored screen prints of some famous faces, I don't really know that much about him. We didn't go to see any of the traveling exhibits. We were all about Andy, just Andy. We went in on a Sunday afternoon and even though the car show was in town, the museum was fairly busy.
We liked the wide open expanse of space and the relaxed atmosphere. We really enjoyed the initial room that contained a brief history of the artist. Also, one of our favorite pieces was his screen print of Judy Garland. Beautiful use of color, what an amazing piece. Also, I fell in love with Elvis all over again and again and again. Equally fascinating, were the self portraits.
I had seen the movie Factory Girl, so I was aware of Andy's random movie making. It was fascinating to view some of his films. Very interesting. What about that "guy" with the banana? Now there is something you don't see everyday!
I did think that the silver balloon room was a little silly. Until I was trapped in there with my bf BJ. And then I fell in love with it. It was SO much fun!
It was also very interesting to see much of the old memorabilia. Love seeing his old well worn shoes, skinny jeans and leather jackets. Priceless! There is a lot to see, read and absorb. So, this museum definitely deserves repeat visits. BJ doesn't know it yet, but we will be going back. -
Review from Greg M.
Austin, TX
4/14/2011
A great museum just a couple of blocks from PNC Park, where the Pirates play. I'm a big Warhol fan, so it is a blast to see so many of his originals. They've also had shows of Basquiat and Haring there, which were also wonderful. It's also a blast to see all the stuff he collected in his archive boxes--what a strange, wonderful dude Andy was. The video collection from his TV show is also hilarious, and so very 80s (loved the interview with Marc Almond). I also like the silver balloon room and the cow room. Great stuff.
A lot of people dismiss Warhol, or say they don't like him, but I assure you, everyone has an opinion of him (and that says something about his influence) not to mention that you can see echoes of his work in just about every type of art everywhere.
Give me a Brillo box over some snobby boring art any day! They have a student discount too, which is nice for a grad student like me. The gift shop is disappointing though, you'd sure think they could come up with better t-shirts and stuff, given the commercial appeal (and origin) of his work.Listed in: The Best Day Ever! in…
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Review from Jeff O.
Woodside, NY
2/22/2011
7 floors of Andy Warhol seems like a lot, but when one huge room is filled with one print of a skull, it feels a little like a cop-out. My favorite part of the museum was the room with all of his TV shows playing. They showed episodes with people in his clique and other people he thought were important. It was the early days of MTV where cleanliness wasn't a priority - that was a precious period. I could spend 8 hours in that room.
I am a big fan of his work and his ideas, but even being possibly the biggest museum dedicated to a single artist, it just wasn't worth the $15 admission. Go on Friday nights for half-price.Listed in: This is the Pittsburgh
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Review from Cara L.
2/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
This was truly one of the most interesting, trippiest things I've ever experienced.
When the beau and I decided on a one-night stay in Pittsburgh, we knew right away that the Warhol Museum was on our must-do list. We saved it for the last activity of the day and strolled around eyes-wide-open, speechless and entranced the entire time. I think the only thing that made us giggle a little was whole oral sex with a nanner flick--but hey, we never claimed to be mature.
As you already know, this building is packed floor after floor with mesmerizing works of art, photos, videos and information about the interesting life of Andy Warhol himself. In fact, I would have loved even more nitty-gritty info about his short time on this earth. I'm not sure I've ever taken so much time in a museum to make sure I read every minuet detail.
I know it's probably cliché, but The Silver Cloud Room blew my friggin' mind. I must have stood in there for like 10 minutes just staring at these floating pillows of silver crash into one another and well--me. What a simple, yet deep and interesting concept.
I loved the rooms painted all white with just a few of his paintings hung. You just sit on the bench in the middle and soak in your own interpretation. I sat in the Skull room and just looked up in awe.
I really think everyone should experience this museum at least once in their lifetime. The work of this fascinating man truly spoke of the art and times of our generation. it was new, different and left so much room for individual interpretation. I think that's what I love the most. Warhol's work doesn't tell you what to think, it let's you figure it out yourself.
One thing I could do without would be the pretentious preteens running the admissions desk. Yes, I realize I'm not wearing skinny jeans, glasses and a hipster outfit, but I still appreciate art. Get over yourself.Listed in: Playing in Pittsburgh
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Review from Lyn P.
11/24/2010
Even a casual fan of Warhol will enjoy this museum. Its seven floors of exhibition space contain Warhol's art, personal memorabilia and special exhibitions. As you wander through each floor, you really get a sense of his aesthetic and his obsession with pop culture.
I visited during the Marilyn Monroe retrospective. I enjoyed the mixture of media - the photographs were especially interesting to me. I also really loved the interactive "Silver Clouds" room. Its like the best pillow fight you'll ever have,
Overall, it's a great museum, though if pressed for time, I would head to the Natural History/Art Museum over this one.Listed in: For the Artsy Fartsy
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Review from Samantha S.
Houston, TX
4/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place was great! I thought it was fun and interesting, whether or not you knew much about Warhol before you visited. I was impressed with the size of the collection - 7 floors of it! This guy was super weird, but his life story and his work are both fascinating.
One of my favorite parts was actually the one exhibit that had nothing to do with Andy - American Qur'an by Sandow Birk. It was a room full of amazing detailed paintings encompassing the entire Qur'an, with a modern scene illustrating each section.
I did think the admission was a bit high, considering for the same price you can get an admission to the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History (yes both). However since this was my first visit to Pittsburgh, I thought this was a really fun and unique attraction to visit. Also, the friends that were with us had Bank of America cards and got free admission (darn you Chase!) -
Review from Diana R.
Chicago, IL
11/20/2010 4 photos
My first trip to Pittsburgh! This museum was the reason I wanted to go to Pittsburgh in the first place, and I'm incredibly happy that I went. The price isn't ridiculous, especially with a student id. There are works by a lot of different artists, so it's not monotonous. Silver Clouds was definitely the most fun, but it was also very interesting to see Andy's influence in so many different artists (and their influence on him) and to see his videos.
I definitely learned a few things about Andy, and I was impressed with the variety of works here. I would recommend for Warhol fans, and for people who want to understand Warhol fans.Listed in: Pittsburgh.
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Review from Joe D.
Pittsburgh, PA
1/10/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Like a train wreck, some pieces of Warhol's works are so ugly but you can't look away. This is one museum I hate and love at the same time. The first time I visited I was invited by some college students at Point Park U. I work with. They were putting on a play and gave me a pass for free admission. I hadn't planned on going but things fell through with previous plans and I found myself at the museum. I was guided to the theatre and found I had front row seating. The lights went out and the curtain pulled back and for the next 45 minutes I was watching naked college students in a huge shower screaming at the top of their lungs while red and black water sprayed on them. Um.....
The next time I went, it was for Andy Warhol's 85th birthday celebration and admission was 85 cents, not a bad savings of $14.15, I'm not cheap but a good deal is a good deal! I loved seeing all the familiar pieces, the Marilyn Monroes, the Jackie Kennedy Onassiss' the Brillobox and of course all his self portraits. The silver cloud room is an amazing piece of installation artwork, you have to see it for the full experience. I was also treated to silk screening my very own Andy Warhol portrait in the basement, which I framed and have hanging in my bathroom. Whenever I have friends visiting I make sure we always visit Andy, even though he's turning over in his grave because his remains and museum are both in his much hated hometown. If you love Warhol's work or just love 60's, 70's and early 80's pop art or are just a pop culture nut like me, you'll love the Warhol. -
Review from Ann L.
1/4/2011
Amazing museum well worth a visit.
Tip: The person at the front desk may tell you that you should start at the 7th floor and work your way back down. What they didn't tell me was that the room behind the desk had a timeline detailing Warhol's life. Although I was glad I saw this on the way out and made for a good wrap-up of what I had seen, I wish I had read all this when I started at the museum to give a better context to the art.
Two places where the museum can improve (pretty minor):
1) The cards next to the art usually detail the bare minimal facts about the art and sometimes a short bio of the artist (there are many non-Warhol pieces here). I wish more of the cards explained the context, meaning, and symbolism of the pieces. A lot of times, I was particularly interested in a piece and was disappointed that I could not learn more about it.
2) The giftshop has about two dozen poster-size prints of Warhol art but only has postcards of about 3 museum pieces. I found this incredibly disappointing because I love purchasing postcards of art I find interested when I'm visiting a museum. -
Review from Mel U.
11/22/2010
I was just mesmerized by the Andy Warhol museum from entry until departure. Just. Mesmerized.
I visited during late Spring while the Playboy and Bunny Yeager exhibits were featured (yes, though I'm female *roar* I am still a huge fan of the Playboy and pin-up cultures). The organization does a fantastic job of showcasing his wealth of talents, his eternal place in pop culture and his beautiful (albeit obsessive-compulsive) and creative mind. Room by room, there were more pieces of Warhol's life of which I wished to be a part. Helping me to feel as though I WAS a part of his harried, exciting and too-short life. *sigh* I'm just swooning.
And I definitely need to go back. This is certainly a place you need visit more than once (or an entire day!) to truly absorb everything.
If I only have one request -- one that should especially be followed when surrounded by nude images -- is for parents to keep their freakin children on a leash. There was a group of four kids screaming, running around the museum as though they took a wrong detour from the zoo. I couldn't even enter the silver clouds room, fearing definite bruising to my upper torso area (and that's coming from someone who plays roller derby). I'm not saying children should not encounter culture, but... have some consideration (and class, natch) for those who are appreciating the art. Some of whom, enjoy it more so when the opposing senses are not overloaded.Listed in: Auditory, visual & sensory
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Review from Devin L.
9/27/2010
Stopped in here this past Spring.
Loved looking at all of the Pop Art. It's funny how Warhol's art defined the 80's. Being a child at the time, I didn't realize it.
My favorite exhibit was the tv show room. They have every one of his shows playing on seperate screens with headphones. Seeing those old interviews with Duran Duran and Blondie was great. I remembered my dad watching them on MTV back in the day.
There was also a great exhibit on car accidents and suicide photos. Very powerful stuff.
Definitly check this place out.Listed in: My Pittsburgh Favorites
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Review from Michael U.
Dublin, OH
7/6/2010
Seven floors of brilliance - one terrible gift shop, and an average art museum cafe.
From the myriad Warhol originals to the current DuChamp exhibit I think every one in our group was impressed by the diversity of the collection - I'm rather certain this was the best museum dedicated to a single individual that I have ever seen.
A great discount for students and half-price Fridays are great perks that keep the place "happening" - I only wish the photo policy weren't so strict...Andy LOVED to be photographed. -
Review from Maria O.
12/29/2010
I had a great time at the Warhol. It's fulfilling in a way that engages all of your senses, and also, because well, let's face it any time that a museum is dedicated to an artist you often find only their very minor works, so yay Warhol, for having the stuff only die-hards would recognize and the recognizable stuff for us mainstream modern art gits (moi*). They also showcase Warhol's contemporaries and had a great video projection piece of Marlene Dietrich singin "Where Have all the Flowers Gone?" ah they had me over a barrel at that one! (And I liked-ed it)
*In my defense I'm more of an Italian classicist when it comes to art. I
ll take a Della Robbia over a Koons any day. So pfft!! -
Review from Jeff M.
7/17/2011
Dense. Weird. Fantastic. I'm not one who knows much about art, let alone the specific details about someone like Andy Warhol. That's exactly why I went. To learn and to experience. This is a really nicely laid out museum and really does a great job paying tribute to a modern great. There is a ton of pieces on display and you could spent days here. If you're in Pittsburgh, I wouldn't hesitate to visit, love him, hate him, or know nothing about him, that's why you should go.
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Review from Bethany P.
New York, NY
7/26/2010
Awesome museum, one of my very favorite things I did while in Pittsburgh and museums don't tend to make my "favorite things" list! The exhibits are interesting and well thought out. There are seven floors and plenty to look at on each.
Such a great way to learn about not only Warhol, but also, the pop art movement in general. It's a wide-open but welcoming modern space and I really enjoyed it! I went after dinner and it was great way to end an evening. There is a cash bar and plenty to see and experience. -
Review from Ed H.
Pittsburgh, PA
1/26/2011
If you have even just a passing interest in pop culture and contemporary art and you happen to stop into the Andy Warhol Museum at a random time, you're bound to have at least a four star time.
What makes the Warhol truly exceptional is their programming which includes special events, bands, guest djs, happy hours, outdoor concerts and guest installations that are oftentimes worth the price of admission alone. As a side dish to any of these other events, the museum is absolutely amazing and holds up upon repeat visits.
Most recently, I stopped by during the Shepard Fairey installation with visitors from out of town, and everyone, including people who had been there multiple times, thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
The Silver Cloud room is a must see and has probably launched a million profile pictures.
This place is great for dates, a family day (provided your kids are at least in their teens), killing an afternoon that might otherwise be spent in front of the tube and for showcasing the Burgh to visitors.
Random minutia: there is a kickass song by an old local punk band called the Ultimatics about getting stood up at the Warhol. -
Review from Buddy G.
Pittsburgh, PA
4/24/2011
Warhol was still able to elicit $30 from me, 24 years after his death. But his museum barely elicited 20 minutes of my time or any reaction whatsoever. Possibly relevant before the onset of computers and specifically Photoshop, his work is now religated the scrap heap of pre-cursor also rans. Interestingly enough the piece we found most intriguing was Keith Haring's elephant. While the Warhol museum is certainly a must see destination for tourists, anyone looking for inspiring art might be better served elsewhere. Oh yeah, kudos to Ritchie Hawtin's doppelganger at the front desk...you guys killed it in Miami that one time.
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Review from Dj M.
Feasterville-Trevose, PA
7/29/2008 6 photos
This is a very large museum for one "Man's Art. Plan to spend hours roaming around, which is spread out on different floors and some rooms can easily be missed. They do have elevators.
Not sure whether or not it was wise to take along a pre-teen boy and girl who certainly did not understand his works! However my daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Admission= Adults $15.00 Children 3-18= $8.00Listed in: Just For Shitz & Giggles, That's Entertainment!
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Review from Rachel C.
12/8/2007
This is a one-of-a-kind museum that truly leads each new visitor through the creativity, talent and diversity of one of the most fascinating artists of our time.
If you come to Pittsburgh for no other reason, come to see the Andy Warhol Museum.
And there are lots of other reasons to come to Pittsburgh - Mt. Washington & Grandview Avenue, the Trams, the Steelers, the Pirates, the Golden Triangle, the Allegheny, the Monongahela, the Ohio rivers, the history, the geography, the Universities . . . . a city to be explored.
But if you only have time for one thing, make it the Andy Warhol Museum. If you are lucky enough to live in this incredible city, make this museum a regular place to visit. It will feel new each time.
After visiting the museum walk down Smallman or Penn Avenue, stop in any of the wonderful restaurants. Have some really good Italian food (there's lots in Pgh!) and let what you have just seen truly sink in.
Andy Warhol was a most talented man. This museum reflects that talent. -
Review from Debbie W.
New York, NY
10/2/2009
I've always wanted to go to Pittsburgh for 3 reasons-- The Steelers, Falling Water, and the Warhol Museum.
I probably have no business writing this review cause we pulled in to Pittsburgh at about 15 minutes before the museum closed, (and it was now or never, cause the Museum was closed the following day) we somehow raced through 7 floors of pop culture in 15 minutes-- and STILL loved it. I think/hope we managed to at least glance at every piece of art in that beautiful concrete building and it was all great. I'll certainly never forget the most unique trip through the most unique museum i've been to-- a manic run up each flight of stairs and around each floor, laughing like crazy people and almost feeling the lights go out behind our every step.
I recommend leaving yourself a little more time than 15 minutes of course-- there is so much to see. But if 15's all you got...make the most of it right? Oh, and its worth the trip even if you're not from the Pittsburgh area.Listed in: W3
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Review from Tricia S.
Pittsburgh, PA
11/29/2007
Every city has a few "must see's" and for Pittsburgh the Andy Warhol museum is one of them. Whether you're entertaining out of town guests with an hour to kill or hosting a corporate function for the evening, the seven floors of this former warehouse are packed with something for everyone.
I've had the pleasure of attending casually with family on a lazy afternoon, as well as, several private elegant evening affairs. The staff is always accessible and informative. On an average visit I'd fore go the cafe and plan to eat before or after your tour (try Atria's or Outback at PNC Park, Finnigan's Wake, Isabella's Street Cafe, or Firewater's Saloon). Nearby parking goes quickly on big event nights (Go Steelers! Go Bucs!), but it's well worth a stroll through the North Shore for a gander at Andy's eccentric life and eclectic collection of art and memorabilia.
As with most visitors the cloud room (floating silver pillows bouncing about the room) was most memorable. As was the equally unique souvenir shop (remember the "Billy's Parcel Service (BPS)" doll that upset UPS so much?).
And don't forget to bring your camera.... in addition to myriad of eye candy the Warhol has to offer, the looks on some tourists faces while perusing the many 'artsy' photos are absolutely priceless.Listed in: Culture Vultures
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Review from Lauren H.
Los Angeles, CA
8/12/2010
Really decent museum. A good overview of his life and work on the first floor. I would have liked to see more large works, but did enjoy what was there. Some great self-portraits in drag that I had never really looked at before.
LOVED the video floor. Great to see clips from Andy Warhol's T.V. I sat and watched all of the John Waters/Divine episode.
All the kids working there on a Sunday afternoon were low energy hipsters.
Secret old school b&w photobooth hidden in the basement. $3. -
Review from Don W.
9/7/2010 5 photos
I'm not a big Warhol fan, nor a typical museum dweller. But, put those things together and I found the Andy Warhol Museum to be a must-see destination in Pittsburgh. The museum was informative and fun. I wasn't aware of Warhol's pre-fame work, and most of it was quite good and certainly fascinating.
So, I suggest that you arrive early for a Steelers or Pirates game and duck on in for some low-brow/high-brow art. -
Review from Vanessa W.
Bethlehem, PA
3/13/2010
This is a wonderful museum that's a lot of fun. Andy Warhol's work is crazy and they have a LOT of it here - 7 floors to be exact. It's an absolute must see if you like modern art, or even have a slight interest in it.
We went on Friday at 5 - which it's half price admission, and they open a cash bar. Lots of younger people of all types, looks like quite the interesting scene.
Great cafe and gift shop too. Check it out!
