Controversial paintings of a naked Cary Grant are to be exhibited in Los Angeles, even though artist KURT KAUPER knows his artwork will upset the movie legend's estate.

Kauper has made a name for himself in the art world by creating nudes of stars and historical figures from imagination and vintage photographs, and he's particularly interested in his Grant pieces.

He says, "I've always loved Cary Grant. Not only because he embodies such an untouchable ideal, but because of the mythology surrounding him.

"I never intended them to be offensive and I know that Grant himself wouldn't have appreciated them, and I doubt the family will appreciate them. But, as an artist, I can't let that hold me back."

10/09/2003 09:12