With the MEISSEN x Michael Moebius "Legends Blowing Bubbles – Collection," modern Pop Art meets over 300 years of craftsmanship. The highlight and debut piece of this collaboration in 2024 is the limited-edition porcelain bust of Marilyn Monroe, inspired by Michael Moebius’ famous Bubblegum portrait of the pop icon. The collaboration also includes MEISSEN Mugs and Big Mugs, and – just in time for Christmas – tree ornaments featuring Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn designs. To celebrate this new addition, we had the opportunity to interview Michael Moebius.

MEISSEN: Who gifted you with the talent for photorealistic painting?

Michael: People always say that my maternal grandfather was very talented. I only know of one painting by him, which depicts the ocean’s surf. So, artistic talent was definitely present in our family.

MEISSEN: When did your particular passion for Pop Art develop?

Michael: hat came later, with influences after the fall of the Berlin Wall. I’ve always loved Pop Art. I initially worked as a pin-up artist, but in Pop Art, I can express myself more freely. That’s where I found my path – and my success.

MEISSEN: What makes a person an immortal icon of pop culture?

Michael: It’s the person themselves, their charisma, and what they’ve achieved – everything that people remember them for.

MEISSEN: Your pop icon Marilyn Monroe is currently featured in the unique artist collaboration with MEISSEN in the "Legends Blowing Bubbles" Collection, merging with 300 years of craftsmanship. What was special for you about this collaboration?

Michael: The name says it all – MEISSEN. It’s an honor to work with such a company rich in tradition. Meissen porcelain is the treasure of every family. It’s something truly special when it’s passed down, as a gift or heirloom. For me, it’s like being knighted, to have my art united with the crossed swords of Augustus the Strong. I am extremely proud of the result we’ve achieved together.

MEISSEN: The unique bust of Marilyn Monroe took 15 months to create in collaboration with MEISSEN artist Max Hagstotz. How does it feel to see the finished result?

Michael: It feels amazing. Working with Max was fantastic, and the journey was both exciting and challenging. I am very proud of the outcome. Creating sculptures was a new and enriching experience for me, especially since Marilyn is such a well-known figure – everyone has their own connection to her and compares it to other representations and photographs. That was a challenge.