Much of Klarwein's most famous work was inspired by surrealism and pop culture, but also reflected his interest in deities and symbolism. During the 1960s Klarwein's fame grew and some of the decade's most progressive musicians used his artwork for their album covers. Klarwein is still best known for his art of the 1960s and 1970s, with its clear links to surrealism, popular psychedelic imagery, ethnic and exotic themes, erotic, and religious art. He also worked more conventionally across a variety of genres including still life, landscape, and portrait.