Andy's Back!

--and he's goin' shopping!

Andy Warhol (1928-1987) was a major figure in the fine arts, but an even greater figure in New York City's culture. That's why I was surprised and very pleased to come across this "Andy Monument," which was unveiled on March 30, 2011. Still, no one I've shared this picture with so far knew it existed.

The 10-foot tall statue by Rob Pruitt stands along Broadway at 17th Street, which is at the top of Union Square. Near it are the site of the artist's studio The Factory and the spot where Varlerie Soldanas shot him in 1968.

Being from New York, this is a real delight to see. Warhol is truly iconic and instantly recognized here even more than everywhere else. He was also a cat lover. When one cat died, he'd name give the next the same name a its pedecessor, "Sam." He did that twenty-five times.