The Factory

The Factory was the studio of Pop artist Andy Warhol in New York City. It was the center of his artistic, social, and filmmaking activities from 1964 to 1987. Originally located at 231 East 47th Street, the first studio became known as the "Silver Factory" because its walls were painted silver and covered in aluminum foil. The Factory became known for its distinctive blend of art production, experimental film, and music. It served as a gathering place for a wide circle of artists, musicians, writers, and underground personalities—collectively known as Warhol superstars—who contributed to the studio's reputation as one of the most influential creative hubs of its era. In the late 1960s, the Factory relocated to 33 Union Square and evolved into a more streamlined operation focused on film production, while also serving as the headquarters of Interview magazine. During the 1970s, Warhol expanded production of his paintings, increasingly specializing in commissioned portraits of celebrities and wealthy patrons. By the time the Factory moved to 860 Broadway, it had transformed from an underground countercultural hangout into a sophisticated salon where Warhol entertained a rotating cast of celebrities, fashion figures, and socialites—many of whom were also prospective clients. In the 1980s, the Factory relocated once more, this time to 158 Madison Avenue, to accommodate Warhol’s growing business ventures in television and publishing.