Step Inside Absolut Vodka's 'The Other Half' Showcase at London’s Saatchi Gallery

Absolut Vodka hosted a free-to-attend exhibition entitled Absolut x Warhol: The Other Half Exhibit at Saatchi Gallery from October 4 – October 6, dedicated to a new generation of creatives informing the landscape of fine art. Five artists, curated by Hypebae, were invited to reinterpret Andy Warhol’s Absolut ‘blue,’ a rediscovered artwork in 2020 that reignited the late artist’s collaboration with the premium spirits brand. Celebrating their unique visions alongside Warhol’s original artwork, the event spotlighted London’s rich art scene and the release of Absolut’s latest artist-designed bottle.

Continuing the brand's longstanding commitment to the arts, the heart and soul of the Absolut Warhol: The Other Half initiative centers on uplifting and platforming emerging artists dismantling artistic norms through their unique creative disciplines. Absolut’s immersive gallery experience painted the historic Saatchi Gallery blue with shades meticulously extracted from the Absolut ‘blue’ artwork, complete with a portrait shot of Warhol and his iconic signature. Contemporary artworks by artists Kelly Anna, Ken Nwadiogbu, Jade Pearl, Xu Yang and Alexa Sirbu explored the realms of 3D design, painting, illustration, photography and mixed media, binding these mediums through a shared spirit of uninhibited expression.

From Kelly Anna’s sport-infused illustrations to Jade Pearl’s cathartic abstract paintings to Alexa Sirbu’s hyperrealist 3D-rendered flora artworks, the showcase championed a disruptive vanguard of artists redefining the bounds of fine art in a landmark institution. Nigerian multidisciplinary artist Ken Nwadiogbu, in particular, debuted a series of charcoal, oil and acrylic portraits unpacking identity and the migrant experience, while London-based artist Xu Yang presented a stunning self-portrait inspired by Angelica Kauffman’s Portrait of a Lady.

The lively party atmosphere, brought to life with a glimmering disco ball, hors d'oeuvres and energetic DJ sets, welcomed a stylish crowd of diverse professionals across art, music and fashion to experience these artworks firsthand. Of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without specialty cocktails, including recipes inspired by Warhol’s infamous sweet tooth and love of cornflakes (Absolut Warhol’s Milk Punch) and the ever-popular espresso martini, adorned with latte art depicting each artist.

A testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to spark conversation and inspire change, the Absolut x Warhol: The Other Half Exhibit held space for innovative voices shaping the future of the UK’s thriving art scene.

Dive into the exhibition in the galleries above, and learn more about Absolut’s investment in the arts by visiting the brand’s website. For vodka lovers, visit Harvey Nichols to pick up the special edition Absolut Warhol bottle.

DISCLAIMER: We discourage irresponsible and/or underage drinking. Drink responsibly and legally.

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebae