Nonetheless, he has been acclaimed as archetypal Pop Art painter of Los Angeles. Ruscha’s background as an artist notably coincides with the interesting history of California art in the late 20th century. During the formative ’60s, he, along with other talented contemporaries, worked his way through the now legendary Ferus Gallery as part of Walter Hopps’s “Cool School.” During the loose era of Abstract Impressionism, Ruscha used his capabilities as a master draftsman to explore a richer and more precise depth in Pop Art. Inadvertently, he set a personal style of modesty and humility that today has been imitated by many young artists groping for social skills.
In fact, these remarks would probably find discomfort with his down-to-earth sensibilities. Ed’s the best. - Robert Williams