Andy Warhol
Dracula, F .& S. II. 264.
From Myths, 1981.
Limited edition screenprint in colors on Lenox Museum board.
Hand-signed and numbered at the lower right margins from the edition of 200.
This artwork is framed in a clear acrylic frame.

Published in Myths by Ronald Feldman Fine Arts, Inc., New York, Andy Warhol’s 1981 “Dracula” is more than just a vampire portrait. It’s a self-reflection, a campy commentary, and an elevation of the fantastical to the realm of high art. Warhol was referred to as “Drella,” a playful blend of Dracula and Cinderella by his friend Ondine, symbolizing darkness, desire, power, and vulnerability. This duality inspired him to cast his friend, Sean McKeon, as the iconic vampire. While undoubtedly drawn to McKeon’s charisma, Warhol’s aim transcended mere portraiture. He sought to create a tongue-in-cheek horror icon, transforming a potentially cheesy subject into a work of artistic significance.

Emerging from the canvas’s black void, Dracula’s menacing form takes shape. His dark cloak and hair blend seamlessly with the shadows, while vibrant lines, like bursts of light, highlight his features. This interplay of darkness and light emphasizes the otherworldly nature of the figure. He’s not a mere celebrity but a spectral being, a creature of fiction.

Andy Warhol – Off The Wall Gallery, Houston, Texas.