Karen bystedt artist statement

During my vibrant student days at NYU in the thrilling 80s, I dove heartfirst into New York City's electrifying club scene. Amidst the shimmering lights and captivating rhythms, I found camaraderie with an eclectic mix of souls—wall street mavens, rising stars, inspired musicians, visionary artists, daring fashionistas, and flamboyant drag queens. Together, we danced through nights drenched in a celebration of diversity and unity, where every voice resonated deeply and every move was a burst of our collective spirit. That magical era was a haven of individuality, embracing all forms of expression and rewarding originality with open arms. Fast forward to 2014, and there I was in Los Angeles, immersed in the dynamic world of street art. Rediscovering my cherished Warhol negatives ignited a thrilling new chapter as artists sought to merge their unique visions with my photographic legacy. As I wandered through art shows, I met an incredible tapestry of people—each varying in age, background, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation, yet all united by a shared adoration for Andy Warhol. This period was not just about artistic expression; it marked the dawn of a digital revolution. Platforms like Instagram burgeoned, championing the idea that art is the ultimate equalizer, knitting together diverse threads of humanity in collaboration and inclusivity, much in the spirit of Warhol's enduring legacy. In my collection, the Lost Warhols, I celebrate the fusion of different artistic mediums, creating unique, original artworks. This collection stands as a vibrant testament to the power of collaboration and inclusion, mirroring both Warhol's and my own dedication to originality, diversity in art, and heartfelt inclusion.