Claes Oldenburg at the Whitney

Soft Viola, 2002 © Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen

Photograph by Ellen Page, courtesy PaceWildenstein

Explore the whimsical Pop Art world of the great Claes Oldenburg at a pair of exhibits at the Whitney Museum. Best known for his humongous replicas of everyday objects, the artist's solo work is presented in "Claes Oldenburg: Early Sculpture, Drawings and Happenings Films." Viewers of all ages will relate to his familiar subjects, such as a giant BLT sandwich, oversize french fries topped with a glob of ketchup, and a giggle-inducing 3-D toilet. Kids will be captivated by an enormous mechanized ice bag, which expands and contracts hypnotically. In addition to his sculptures, all of which are smooth, shiny and inviting, the artist brings his interest in daily life to his drawings of mundane items, like a safety pin and an open refrigerator. "When I started to make objects, I tried to remember things from my childhood," Oldenburg, 80, said at a press preview, which explains why his work speaks so strongly to the younger set.

The second installation, "The Music Room"—a collaboration between Oldenburg and his late wife, Coosje van Bruggen, featuring enormous plush instruments hanging from the walls—was inspired by musicians playing on the Paris Metro. The sculptures look like colossal toys and are reminiscent of beanbags. Sadly, kids will have to be content examining these squishy objects with their eyes, even though the pieces beg little fingers to pinch and poke.—Toni Cruthirds

"Claes Oldenburg: Early Sculpture, Drawings and Happenings Films" and "Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen: The Music Room" are on view at the Whitney Museum of American Art through Sept 6.

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