Margaret Keane (born 1927) is an American artist renowned for her distinct style featuring characters with oversized, expressive eyes. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Keane’s big-eyed children and animals became a hallmark of popular culture, especially during the 1960s.
She initially painted her signature artworks under her husband Walter Keane’s name, as he claimed credit for her works and sold them under his signature. This controversial chapter of her life was a well-guarded secret for years, with Walter becoming one of the most famous artists of his time by promoting and profiting from Margaret’s paintings. It wasn’t until the 1970s that Margaret revealed she was the true creator, leading to a highly publicized court case where she painted in front of a judge to prove her claim. The court ruled in her favor.
Margaret’s painting style is instantly recognizable due to the melancholic, large-eyed characters she depicts. While some critics have dismissed her work as kitsch, her pieces evoke deep emotion, often reflecting feelings of vulnerability and innocence. The exaggerated eyes, according to Keane, represent the window to the soul.
In terms of artists with a similar style, there’s a scarcity of direct parallels, but the art world has witnessed various artists drawing inspiration from her, especially within the Lowbrow art movement. The 2014 film “Big Eyes” by Tim Burton chronicled Margaret’s life, further cementing her place in popular culture.
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margaret_Keane
