Pop Art: characteristics, artists and main works
Figurative use of language
Pop artists created an artistic language that could be considered a lifestyle. They used those issues that reflected what was important for the consumer society and took their symbols and idols to project them in their works. This led to a debate of ideas among academics and artists from other currents to question whether the significant elements of pop art could be considered works of art.
Transmits the interests and lifestyle of modern society
If in the past the artists represented in their works of art virgins, saints, reigns, battles or coronations adjusted to the events and reality of their times;Pop art artists wanted to do exactly the same.
All these objects that were part of the society of the moment as everyday products, made in series or media idols, became the source of inspiration of their works. Such is the case of world -class artists and figures (Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, President Kennedy, comics heroes) or some industrialized products for mass use such as Coca Cola or the Campbells soup cans would become the new symbols ofPop culture.
Use of collage
For Pop Art artists the collage technique is the one who worked the most in their works. To do this they commonly used magazine cuts, books, newspapers, photographs or propagandas to transmit their emotions. One of the best Pop Art style collages has been the work of artist Richard Hamilton titled: “Just What is It That Makes Today’s Homes So Different, So Appealing?"Translated as:" What does it do to the homes of today so different, so attractive?”Where Hamilton projects the new lifestyle of the American family.
They also incorporated objects out of context such as the image of a famous work of art, a photograph or drawing of a product and taking them to another content. Thus they were converted into new works of art.
Implementation of unusual techniques
In addition to collage the screen printing, the comic with vignettes and photography were part of the techniques most used by pop artists. These methods were totally new and had never previously used in the field of plastic arts. The new images loaded with a lot of color and dynamism caused great impact on society that recognized them as symbols of the culture of the moment.
Use of humor and irony
Pop Art artists were clear that their art did not intend or sought to be an intellectual current as described by the foundations of abstractionism or cubism. On the contrary, they used humor with simple subliminal messages in their works. Many times the intentions were aimed at ridiculing various scenarios. They assumed a critical position towards consumption, media idols or on war situations, but in turn supported them. Pop artists ironized and laughed at the circumstances of the moment as an unusual and not aggressive way to criticize.
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