45 MINUTES OF FAME

Chilean painter Daniel Mena doesn't obscure Andy Warhol's influence on his work: Mena's realist portraits of beautiful people (including Jessica Simpson) superimposed on 60's-style backgrounds such as plaids, polka dots and atomic energy symbols. The 20-something pop artist - already a celebrity in his imagination (check the self-portraits where he’s surrounded by stunning women) - has gained considerable renown in Chile. His paintings - like the media, consumer and popular cultures they reflect - make every effort to titillate.

By Tim Follos
The Washington Post Express - Monday, August 21, 2006 - Page 18

A CHILEAN JUNIOR WARHOL

The Embassy of Chile's exhibition on Daniel Mena wraps up tomorrow and even if you hate Jessica Simpson, you must appreciate the Chilean pop artist's work celebrating her turn as Daisy Duke in "Dukes of Hazzard." Mena's work can be a bit self-indulgent - as seen in this portrayal of himself at right - but it fits just perfectly!

By Michael Grass
The Washington Post Express On-Line - Thursday, August 31, 2006