[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 33, Number 40 (Monday, October 6, 1997)]
[Page 1466]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Death of Roy Lichtenstein

September 30, 1997

    Hillary and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Roy 
Lichtenstein. He will long be remembered as a defining force in the pop 
art movement.
    We grew to love his trademark Benday dots and striking primary 
colors, which distinguished his unique art form and altered the 
landscape of American art. He had a talent for presenting everyday 
cultural symbols in ways that attracted our attention and gave these 
images a new meaning. Two years ago, I had the honor of presenting to 
Roy the National Medal of Arts Award in recognition of his contribution 
to American art. In addition, he was especially valued and treasured by 
us here in the White House because of his generous support for our Arts 
in Embassies program.
    Hillary and I will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his 
friends and family in this sad time.