Hopeless

The painting "Hopeless" by Roy Lichtenstein, created in 1963, is an emblematic piece that juxtaposes oil and acrylic paint on canvas. It is prominently displayed in the collection of Kunstmuseum Basel. This artwork draws inspiration from a panel in the DC Comics publication "Secret Hearts" specifically from issue no. 83, published in November 1962.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, many American artists began to incorporate comic strip imagery into their art. Lichtenstein was among them, creating notable pieces like "Look Mickey" and "Popeye" in the early 1960s. His works from this era often focused on women caught in dramatic love affairs, with "Hopeless" and "Drowning Girl" serving as prime examples.

Lichtenstein's art from this period frequently depicted women in states of vulnerability and distress, possibly reflecting his own personal life as his first marriage was coming to an end. "Hopeless" exemplifies his signature Romance comics style, featuring a sorrowful woman at the center, brought to life with expressive colors and bold lines.

Critics regard "Hopeless" as a significant milestone in Lichtenstein's artistic evolution, showcasing his mastery of form, color, and composition. The painting adeptly transforms the ephemeral nature of comic art into a lasting artistic expression, all while preserving the melodramatic essence of romance comics from that era.