Anthology Film Archives recently held a screening dedicated to Naomi Levine, an actress in Andy Warhol's early works, yet often overlooked in discussions of his influential "superstars". In his book 'Warhol's Muses', Laurence Leamer explores Warhol's relationships with women who aided in his rise while highlighting how he exploited their contributions. The narrative positions these women as pivotal in elevating Warhol's public image but also emphasizes the harsh reality of being used and discarded. Levine's absence from this narrative underscores the complexities of fame and recognition within Warhol's inner circle.
Levine performed in many of Warhol's early underground films but never became famous, which is perhaps why she doesn't feature in Leamer's 'Warhol's Muses'.
Leamer focuses on Warhol's women, the glamazons who not only enhanced his social status but were also used and discarded once deemed unworthy.
Warhol's superstars included rebellious heiresses and bohemian artists who brought glamour to his life but were ultimately manipulated for his gain.
By the 1960s, despite achieving commercial success, Warhol's fine art was struggling, prompting his reliance on the social allure of his female companions.
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