Peter Max Biography

A pop culture icon who revolutionized the concept of modern art in the U.S., Peter Max is a graphic artist known for his psychedelic style of painting and use of bright, vibrant colours. Regarded as one of the most popular among all living American artists, he played a significant role in shaping the way contemporary America views art. As a child, he traveled all around the world with his family and was exposed to various exotic locations in Tibet, Africa, and Europe before finally settling in the U.S. He began his artistic career in the 1960s by opening a small arts studio with his friend. He developed a unique style of art combining antique photographic images, bold colours, and collages. His studio became very popular among business houses and his art was soon appearing on posters and walls of the colleges in the U.S. He incorporated into his paintings elements of astronomy—a science he had a deep love for—and ushered in the ‘Cosmic 60s’ period which was characterized by psychedelic, counter culture imagery. He became very famous for his unique symbolism and expressionism and his art works appeared on several television commercials which made him a national icon. He is a vegetarian and a strong supporter of human and animal rights, and has dedicated several of his paintings to these causes.