Roy Lichtenstein turned the lowly comic strip into high art, and his Ben-Day-dotted canvases — crying girls, fighter jets, brushstrokes blown up to monumental scale — remain some of the most instantly recognizable images of the 20th century. The Whitney's presentation gathers the Pop master's work in the museum that has long championed American art, making for a bright, crowd-pleasing summer draw. If you want art that's iconic, photogenic and genuinely fun, Lichtenstein delivers.
What to expect
Expect bold, graphic paintings built from Ben-Day dots, heavy black outlines and primary colors, drawn from comics, advertising and art history. The works are large and high-impact. Step in close to see the hand-painted dots, then back up for the full image.
Good to know
- At the Whitney Museum in the Meatpacking District
- Closest trains are the A/C/E or L to 14th St/8th Ave, then a walk
- Included with museum admission
- A highly photogenic, crowd-pleasing show — expect company on weekends
- Buy timed tickets online to skip the entry line
- Pair with the Whitney Biennial and the terrace views
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Common questions
Who was Roy Lichtenstein?
A leading American Pop artist famous for paintings based on comic strips and advertising, rendered with Ben-Day dots and bold outlines.
When does it open?
It opens in 2026 at the Whitney.
Is it included with admission?
Yes — it's a Whitney exhibition included with general admission.
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