“Smoker #8” (1973) from Tom Wesselmann is part of a new display at Gagosian. (photo courtesy of Tom Wesselmann)

Gagosian presents “Tom Wesselmann: Intimate Spaces,” an exhibition of paintings of nudes by Tom Wesselmann. A defining artist of U.S. Pop art, Wesselmann produced innovative mixed-media paintings that brought the energy of commercial culture to still lifes, interiors, landscapes and nudes.

The exhibition, organized in collaboration with the artist’s estate, concentrates on the artist’s primary subject, the female nude, with key works from Great American Nudes (1961–73) and subsequent series. With a nod to both the great American novel and the American dream, the title of Great American Nudes also refers to Wesselmann’s affinity for the scale of Abstract Expressionist paintings, billboards and movie screens. Inspired by Henri Matisse’s odalisques, Wesselmann employed a saturated palette, clearly defined contours, and interlocking positive and negative shapes. The paintings are set in domestic interiors and often incorporate collage and assemblage elements, appearing highly contemporary in their provocative discontinuities of style.

The exhibit is on view through June 16. The Gagosian is located at 456 N. Camden Dr. In Beverly Hills. For information, visit gagosian.com/exhibitions/2023/tom-wesselmann-intimate-spaces.