Christopher Henry Gallery is pleased to present Ironic Icons by New York artist William Anthony. For over 45 years Anthony’s sketchily drawn satires have been the antidote for a world that sometimes takes itself too seriously. True to form, Anthony delivers yet another hilarious outpouring sure to brighten dismal economies across the globe. From ancient history to art history Anthony spares none the jab of his sharpened pencil. Not be to be missed are the endless satires of magazine covers, art history, and real life historical events as seen through an ‘outsiders’ eye, though Anthony is no outsider. Looking clumsy and heavy-handed, upon close inspection the scratchy lines and mottled tones reveal the labor of a deliberate and calculating master storyteller. Drawing on myriad classic art student mistakes, Anthony uses his pseudo-naïve approach to figure drawing to lure the viewer into his web. With intelligence and stealth, Anthony’s “innocent” style serves as a perfect vehicle for his satirical views of society and the natural world, a world precariously balanced, cruel and primal. Without giving away any spoilers, rest assured the viewer is sure to have a laugh (out loud) more than a few times, which, in these troubled times, is more than some have in an entire month.

William Anthony is the author of many books including War is Swell, Bill Anthony’s Greatest Hits, and Bible Stories. Anthony’s work has developed into a serious study and focus in commentary and language which over time has drawn the attention of important critics and artists alike. His work has been collected by such artists as Roy Lichtenstein, Jasper Johns, and Andy Warhol, championed by art critics including Ken Johnson, Robert Rosenblum, Roberta Smith, and Leo Steinberg and can be found in museum collections worldwide. Ken Johnson has described Anthony as “a sophisticated visual comedian who plays the fool to hilarious and often profound effect.”