Margaret Keane
Awards & Honours
0
Awards Won
2
Honours
1
Rankings
1
Covers
2
Records
Margaret Keane's achievements stand out for their defiance against systemic fraud and her ultimate vindication in a highly publicized legal battle. Her 1968 court victory remains one of the most dramatic moments in art law history, where a judge ordered a live paint-off to determine authorship. The sheer volume of reproductions sold during the 1960s, reaching into the millions, marks her as one of the most commercially successful artists of her time, despite being denied credit for decades. Her story serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and the importance of recognizing women's contributions to the arts.
Honours & Distinctions
Court Victory
Legally established her as the sole creator of the "Big Eyes" series after her husband refused to paint.
Honorary Tribute
Received numerous honorary tributes following the release of the film Big Eyes.
Rankings & Lists
Greatest American Artists
Magazine Covers
TIME
January 2015
The Story Behind Big Eyes
Records & Feats
Most Reproduced Artist of the 20th Century (Single Style)
Her "Big Eyes" paintings appeared on millions of items including plates, mugs, and posters.
Landmark Copyright Case
First major case where an artist proved authorship through a live paint-off in court.