A recently rediscovered portrait by Dutch photographer Patricia Steur is offering a fresh viewpoint on pop art icon Andy Warhol.Taken in 1975, the photograph quickly became a personal favourite of Warhol, who reportedly told Steur it was the best image ever taken of him-a significant statement from an artist known for meticulously controlling his public persona. Now 77, Steur recounts her remarkably candid experience gaining access to WarholS studio and capturing a rare, unposed moment with the elusive artist.
How Photographer Patricia Steur Gained Andy Warhol’s Trust: ‘He Thought It Was His Best Photo Ever’
Dutch photographer Patricia Steur, now 77, recalls a pivotal moment in her career when she captured a now-iconic image of Andy Warhol. The portrait, taken in 1975, became a favorite of the pop art legend himself, who reportedly declared it “his best photo ever.”
Steur, then a young photographer, was granted unprecedented access to Warhol during a visit to his New York studio. She attributes her success in gaining his trust to a simple, direct approach. “I didn’t ask him to pose,” she explained. “I just started taking pictures.”
The resulting photographs offered a rare, unvarnished glimpse into Warhol’s world. Warhol, known for carefully constructing his public image, seemed remarkably at ease in front of Steur’s lens. The artist’s candid expression in the now-famous portrait is a testament to the rapport she established.
“He really liked that I didn’t make a fuss,” Steur said. “He found it very pleasant.”
The story resurfaces as interest in Warhol’s work and legacy continues to thrive, with his art remaining a cornerstone of modern culture. Steur’s photographs provide a unique and intimate perspective on the enigmatic artist, offering a fresh look at a cultural icon.
