“The End #28” is an artwork created by Edward Ruscha in 2003, which is a part of his “The End” series. This work belongs to the Pop Art movement and is categorized under the figurative genre, indicating that although abstracted, it represents real object sources.
The artwork presents a cinematic feel, reminiscent of the closing screens of classic films. The phrase “THE END” is centrally displayed in bold, white serif font against a mottled red backdrop that suggests a sense of age and wear, often associated with vintage movie screens or posters. It is reminiscent of a bygone era where movies would conclude with such a title card, evoking nostalgia and a definitive conclusion. The background texture adds an element of depth and interest, doing more than merely serving as a canvas for the text, but also engaging the viewer in pondering the history and the stories that could be behind this ‘ending’. Ruscha’s work is known for playing with words and images, where text becomes a central visual theme, and his use of language often carries both literal and metaphorical significance.