The Newshound

Peter Max, the psychedelic pop artist whose vivid work came to symbolise the 1960s 'flower power' era, dies at 88

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Peter Max, whose work appeared on US postage stamps and was distributed to millions on covers of the Manhattan Yellow Pages, has died at 88.
Peter Max, whose work appeared on US postage stamps and was distributed to millions on covers of the Manhattan Yellow Pages, has died at 88.

Peter Max, whose cosmic landscapes, kaleidoscopic butterflies and floating peace symbols made him one of the most recognisable artists of the 1960s, has died at 88 following a lengthy struggle with dementia at a Manhattan hospital. Close friend and colleague Michael Pagnotta confirmed the death, noting that Max leaves behind his children Adam and Libra. His daughter described him as her best friend and expressed hope that people would remember "his kindness, his gentleness, and how much he genuinely cherished putting joy into the world."

Max painted portraits of the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Princess Diana and Taylor Swift, counting rock legends among his closest friends.

At his commercial peak, Max licensed his work across some 70 products, from cruise ships and airliners to bed sheets and swimsuits.

MoreIrish IndependentUS pop artist Peter Max, known for groovy art that came to symbolise the 60s, dies at 88Los Angeles TimesPeter Max, pop artist known for his colorful psychedelic style, dies at 88 - Los Angeles TimesThe Jerusalem PostPeter Max, Jewish psychedelic pop artist and leader in 'flower power' movement, dies at 88 - The Jerusalem PostPeople.comPeter Max, Colorful Artist Known for Psychedelic Pop Art, Dies at 88 - People.comThe SunPop artist whose work epitomised 60s 'flower power' movement dies aged 88
Read today's full feed at The Newshound →