Pop culture, and especially pop music, is something we experience and encounter every day– but what exactly is pop art? Short for „Popular art“, pop art has its roots in the 1950s USA and UK art scenes. It began to gain traction as an independent art movement in the 1960s. Defined by a representational and easily readable style, the movement provided a direct counterpoint to the abstract expressionism of the 1940s and 50s.
The bold color palette and sparse design of pop art is largely inspired by comic books, advertisements and commercial art. Pop art is often utilized in Mid-century modern design schemes, serving as an accompaniment to the architecture and interiors.
The contemporary art world often reinterprets and references iconic pop artworks, while many renowned artists and photographers continue to draw inspiration from the movement.
Andy Warhol is one of the most significant figures in pop art history, equally renowned for his world-famous art as for his iconic white wig, sunglasses and enigmatic manner. His usage of multiple repeated portraits in his artworks continues to define pop art to this day.
His most notable works include his Campbell’s Soup series, his floral silk-screen prints and portraits of Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor.
