b. 1945 - d. 1984

Patrick Nagel was an American illustrator known for his vibrant depictions of women, inspired by the fashionable women of ‘70s and ‘80s Los Angeles. His signature style featured a high-contrast color palette with bold outlines, and incorporated influences from Japanese woodcuts and Art Deco. His work can be found all over the world, including in advertisements and artwork for the popular band, Duran Duran.

About

Artist name Patrick Nagel
Illustrator, painter, b. 1945 - d. 1984

Patrick Nagel was an American illustrator born in Ohio, who spent most of his life in California. His work, whether oil on canvas or graphic design, reflects the vibrance of Los Angeles during the 1970s and 1980s, especially via powerful feminine subjects. A prime example is Playboy Pin-Up, (1982), one of Nagel’s most famous pieces, which stands out for its bold magenta background.

After serving in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, Nagel studied painting and graphic design at California State University, Fullerton. He also freelanced as a commercial artist, creating advertisements for major movie and television studios, including Universal, ABC, and MGM.

Related Styles & Movements

Nagel was inspired by Saul Tepper.

He embraced the Art Deco style, which had been popular in the 1920s and '30s but experienced a resurgence in the '80s.

Nagel incorporated influences of Japanese woodblock prints into many of his designs.

Highlights & Achievements

Nagel’s work reached mainstream audiences when it was used as the album art for Duran Duran’s 1982 record, Rio

Many of Nagel’s illustrations have caught the eye of collectors. In May 2019, the Nagel piece Kristen sold for $240,000 via the auction house Phillips.

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