Exploring the Pop Art Movement
Characterised by recognisable imagery and bright, bold colours, Pop Art began as a revolt against traditional views on what art should be and quickly grew to become one of the most identifiable art movements in history. Let’s dive into the inspiration and driving forces behind this art movement. Plus, shop a carefully curated selection of contemporary Pop Art today!
Pop Art Transformed the Everyday into High Art
Pop Art emerged in the 1950s following World War II and the explosion of consumer culture. Artists began creating vivid work that mirrored, critiqued, and incorporated everyday mass-produced consumer goods and popular culture. The Pop Art movement aimed to dismantle the hierarchy of culture with art coming from the most ordinary sources. As a result of their revolt, Pop artists have elevated the critique of popular culture into high art.
The movement reached its peak in the 1960s. From the vibrant hues of Andy Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s Soup Cans to the thought-provoking installations of Banksy, Pop Art remains a dynamic force in the contemporary world of 21st-century art.
Andy Warhol Limited Edition Print by Australian Artist Tank.
Celebrity Culture
Contemporary artists frequently draw inspiration from celebrities and pop icons, exploring themes of fame, identity, and consumer culture. Figures like Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Madonna have become recurring motifs in contemporary art, symbolising celebrity status’s allure and pitfalls.
American Dreamer 7 by Cold Ghost features actress, singer, model and sex symbol Marilyn Monroe.
Andy Warhol’s renowned silkscreen artwork, titled The Marilyn Diptych (1962), has achieved iconic status, inspiring numerous contemporary pop artists who pay tribute to Warhol, a pioneer of the movement.
Advertising and Consumerism
Artists often critique the pervasive influence of advertising and consumerism in contemporary society. They challenge conventional notions of beauty, value, and commercialism through appropriation, parody, and subversion, prompting viewers to reconsider their relationship with consumer culture.
Chance 4 by Ben Tankard takes the classic imagery of the Monopoly board game and twists it, humouring the current state of societal expectations.
Like Ben Tankards work? Read his Bluethumb Success Story!
Film, Television, and Popular Imagery
Cinema, television, and popular imagery serve as rich sources of inspiration for contemporary artists who explore narratives, characters, and visual aesthetics associated with mainstream media. From reimagined movie posters to immersive video installations, artists reinterpret familiar images and narratives, inviting viewers to reimagine their cultural significance.
The Accomplice by Raf Gralak features cartoon characters from shows the artist fell in love with as a child.
Explore 10 of the Best Australian Pop Artists: Click Here!
Political Commentary and Social Issues
Mainstream media coverage of political events and social issues often becomes fodder for artistic exploration and critique. Artists use their platforms to address race, gender, climate change, and globalisation, spark meaningful conversations and foster social change.
Have A Nice Day by Logan Moody explores consumerism, nostalgia and iconism—a juxtaposition of chaos and colour, waste and politeness.
While owning an original Warhol may be out of reach for most, there are some incredible homegrown Pop Artists on Bluethumb. Click below to explore the Pop Art movement!
Explore Bluethumb’s range of Pop Art today!
