The Ralph Steadman Retrospective offers phenomenal insights into the genius of one of the world’s most acclaimed artists. Experiencing the 108 original artworks included in this exhibition will take the viewer on a journey through Steadman’s prolific career of more than sixty years; from the sketches he created as a student in the 1950’s to current artworks published in 2017.
The Retrospective showcases Steadman’s legendary collaborations with maverick Gonzo journalist, Hunter S. Thompson; his illustrated literary classics such as Alice in Wonderland, Treasure Island; and the inventive books he authored such as I Leonardo and The Big I Am. There are also illustrations from his children’s books, which include No Room to Swing a Cat and That’s My Dad; plus artworks from his travels with Oddbins Wine Merchants. Also, featured is Steadman’s box set artwork inspired by the series Breaking Bad. While still contributing regularly to publications such as The New Statesman, The New Yorker, the New York Observer, and The Independent, last year Ralph Steadman celebrated the release of his most recent book Critical Critters, featuring 100 new paintings.
Throughout his working life, Steadman has strived in his cartoons and artworks to affect and challenge humanity, generate a dialogue, and be a voice to rally for truth and positive change. Steadman’s art is brave, intelligent, and unrelenting. The exhibition will amaze and inspire both the uninitiated and his most die-hard fans. As Thompson advised in the Steadman illustrated Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, “buy the ticket, take the ride.”
Audio Guide
Accompanying the Retrospective is a fascinating audio guide created by Audible and featuring the voices of Ralph Steadman himself, Anita o’Brien, the original curator of the show and Tim Robbins, friend and fan. Take a tour of the exhibition with Ralph at your shoulder giving you his own thoughts and insights about some of the pieces on show, as well as an immersive Gonzo Experience with Tim Robbins. Text STEADMAN to 500-500 to download or click on the icon image to go to the Apple App Store.
Directions
Haight Street Art Center 215 Haight Street, San Francisco
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