Peaking in the 1960s, Pop Art began as a revolt against mainstream approaches to art and culture. It evolved into a wholesale interrogation of modern society, consumer culture, the role of the artist, and what constituted an artwork.
Focusing on materialism, celebrity, and media issues, Pop Art drew on mass-market sources, from advertising imagery to comic books, Hollywood’s most famous faces to the packaging of consumer products, the latter epitomized by Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s soup cans. As well as challenging the establishment with the elevation of such widespread, banal, and kitschy images, Pop Art also deployed methods of mass production, reducing the role of the individual artist with mechanized techniques such as screen printing.
This book introduces the total reach and influence of a defining modernist movement with featured artists, including Andy Warhol, Allen Jones, Ed Ruscha, Robert Indiana, Jasper Johns, Robert Rauschenberg, and Roy Lichtenstein.
About the series
Born in 1985, the Basic Art Series has become the best-selling art book collection ever published. Each book in TASCHEN’s Basic Art History series features:
- Approximately 100 colour illustrations with explanatory captions, a detailed, illustrated introduction
- A selection of the most important works of the epoch, each presented on a two-page spread with a full-page image and accompanying interpretation, as well as a portrait and brief biography of the artist
More on Design History
-
Darmstadt Artists Colony: A Testament to Unity in Art and Craftsmanship
The Darmstadt Artists’ Colony, founded in 1899 by Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig, merged art and functionality, influenced the Arts and Crafts movement, and left a lasting impact.Read More →
-
Utility Furniture: A Testament to Wartime Innovation and Simplicity
The Utility Furniture Scheme, developed during WW2 scarcity, focused on functional, durable, and simple designs. It had a profound impact on British furniture industry.Read More →
-
Unveiling the Elegance of the Art Deco Armchair: A Symbol of 1920s Chicago
Abel Faidy’s 1927 Art Deco armchair embodies modernity with machine aesthetics, geometric forms, vibrant colors, and craftsmanship, symbolizing the innovative spirit of the era.Read More →
-
1937 – Art – Cubism and the Abstract in Museum Display
1937 exhibition at MoMA revisits cubism and abstract art, showcasing their impact on modern artistic expression, bridging tradition and innovation.Read More →
-
The Archaic Smile: A Glimpse into Ancient Well-being and Artistic Expression
The enigmatic Archaic Smile in ancient Greek sculpture offers insights into the culture and technical skill of Archaic Greece. It continues to influence modern decorative arts.Read More →
-
Hector Guimard: The Architect of Enchantment
Hector Guimard, a leading figure in Art Nouveau, pioneered a unique design philosophy and left a lasting impact on public spaces, inspiring contemporary architecture and design.Read More →
-
Korean Wind Chime: A Symphony of Culture and Nature
Korean wind chimes, known as “Punggyeong” (풍경), embody ancient tradition and spiritual significance, featuring intricate designs and materials symbolizing harmony and peace. Today, they remain relevant and cherished.Read More →
-
Elegance Reclined: The Timeless Journey of the Chaise Longue in Design
The chaise longue, or “long chair,” embodies aesthetics, function, and comfort. Its rich history and evolution reflect timeless design and enduring appeal.Read More →
-
Naomi Klein, Journalist and Author – Critic of Consumption Culture
Naomi Klein’s “No Logo” resonates with the design community, echoing past advocates’ social responsibilities. It confronts ethical implications, urging designers towards sustainable practices.Read More →
-
The Ancient Craft of Beetlewing Art
Beetlewing art, originating from South and Southeast Asia, incorporates beetle wings into intricate designs, serving as a symbol of cultural identity. Today, it inspires contemporary fashion and design.Read More →
-
Exploration of Art Pottery
Art pottery, emerging in the late 19th century as a reaction to mass production, blends artistic expression and functionality, celebrating individual creativity and craftsmanship.Read More →
-
Introduction to the Empire Style
The Empire Style, influenced by Napoleon’s reign, embodies grandeur and classical inspiration in French art, architecture, and design, leaving a lasting legacy worldwide.Read More →
-
Introduction to Bonkei: The Art of Miniature Landscapes
Bonkei, a Japanese art form, captures nature’s essence using dry materials. Rooted in history, it emphasizes balance, natural beauty, and reflects Zen philosophy. Appreciated globally.Read More →
-
Introduction to American Art Deco: The Fusion of Modernity and Luxury
The blog post explores the influence of American Art Deco, from its Parisian roots to its impact on architecture, design, and entertainment, showcasing its enduring allure.Read More →
-
The Legacy of Stamped Metal Ornamentation: A Journey Through Time
Stamped metal ornamentation, popular since the late 19th century, has evolved in design and production methods. Despite a decline, it is experiencing a modern-day revival.Read More →
-
Discover the Impact of Industrial Design on West German Culture – Book
“The Authority of Everyday Objects” by Paul Betts explores how post-war German industrial design shaped society, reflecting cultural values and influencing societal change.Read More →
-
Georges Cretté: A Luminary in the Art of French Bookbinding
The Genesis of a Bookbinding Maestro Born on June 6, 1893, in Créteil, Georges Cretté emerged as a pivotal figure in the realm of FrenchRead More →
-
Cox & Co: Pioneering Tubular Steel Furniture in Britain
Cox & Co. shifted from automotive to tubular steel furniture, collaborating with designers and securing prestigious contracts, leaving a lasting modernist legacy.Read More →
-
Mannequins: From Tailor’s Aid to Design Icon
The history of mannequins intertwines with fashion and retail, shaped by Fred Stockman and Pierre Imans. Their innovations reflect societal changes and design evolution.Read More →
-
Exploring the Essence of Californian Design
Californian design embodies innovation, diversity, and adaptability, shaping a global design philosophy integrating technology, environment, and cultural inclusivity for societal progress.Read More →