Mel Ramos (1935-2018) was an American artist best known for his provocative and humorous Pop Art works, which often combined elements of consumer culture with classical art motifs. Born in Sacramento, California, Ramos rose to fame in the 1960s alongside other iconic pop artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. His works often featured idealized depictions of comic book heroines, pin-up models and icons of popular culture, combined with everyday objects such as Coca-Cola bottles and cans.