Peter Max Neo Man Original Painting 1996 Signed Acrylic on Paper

Artist: Peter Max
Title: Neo Man
Medium: Original Acrylic on Paper
Size: Painting measures 30" x 22.5"
Year: 1996
Inscription: Signed and dated "Max 96"
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

"Neo Man" (1996) by Peter Max presents a rare and introspective moment within the artist's broader body of work, which is more commonly associated with iconic symbols, cosmic imagery, and saturated Pop-inflected color fields. Executed as an original acrylic on paper, the composition centers on a male bust rendered through expressive, fluid brushwork and a bold, non-naturalistic palette. The face emerges through layered strokes of blue, lavender, pink, and cream, creating a sense of psychological presence rather than strict likeness.

The handling of paint is direct and gestural, with visible brushstrokes that emphasize movement and immediacy. Color is used structurally to model the form, with contrasting hues defining planes of the face and neck. Rather than idealization, the portrait conveys a contemplative and inward-looking quality, suggesting Max's engagement with the human figure as a vehicle for emotional and formal exploration. The looseness of the execution aligns with his interest in spontaneity and the expressive potential of color, while the intimate scale of the work on paper lends it a personal and informal character.

Although Peter Max is widely recognized for his contributions to American Pop art and his use of national and cultural symbols, figurative portraits such as this demonstrate the breadth of his practice during the 1990s. During this period, Max frequently revisited the human form, applying the same chromatic intensity and energetic mark-making that defined his more emblematic imagery. These works reveal a synthesis of expressionism and Pop sensibility, underscoring his continued experimentation across subject matter and medium.

The painting measures 30 by 22.5 inches and is currently not framed. The image of framed work is a mockup to show the viewer how it might look when framed. It is signed and dated “Max 96” on the front. Created in 1996, "Neo Man" is accompanied by a gallery certificate of authenticity, confirming its attribution and documentation.

About Peter Max

Distinguished for his dynamic and iconic visual language, Peter Max emerges as a global luminary in the art world, surpassing the conventional confines of a painter. His kaleidoscopic palette, reminiscent of the psychedelic 60s, has evolved into a symbol of optimism, leaving an indelible mark across the expanse of his prolific career.

Peter Max's artistic mastery manifests across diverse media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, print, and graphic design. Often categorized as a neo-expressionist, Max's true distinction lies in his status as one of the most prolific and commercially successful pop artists in history. His influence extends beyond the canvas, with noteworthy collaborations spanning from designing for General Electric to serving as the official artist for prestigious events like the Grammy Awards and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His artistic prowess further graced major sporting events, including the Super Bowl, World Cup, World Series, and the US Open. Notably, his creations adorned a Continental Airlines Boeing 777 and even found a place on a US postage stamp.

Max's synesthetic art, eclectic and figurative, serves as a testament to his kaleidoscopic vision. From the iconic Lady Liberty series and music-inspired imagery to the contemporary Obama series and the Masters Series reinterpreting art history classics, Max has rightfully earned the status of a genuine American cultural icon. His works, commissioned by six American presidents, find homes in over 100 museums and galleries globally.

Born as Peter Max Finkelstein in 1937 in Berlin, Max's nomadic upbringing in China, Israel, and France culminated in his family's settlement in the United States. Today, he resides in the vibrant artistic landscape of New York City, NY, where he continues to shape the art world with his groundbreaking creations. The story of Peter Max transcends the boundaries of a mere artistic journey; it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of a visionary whose creations transcend time and cultural boundaries.