Pop Art Movement: Inspirations and Debate

Pop Art Introduction

• Pop art is a modern art movement that uses everyday subject matter presented in bold new styles.
• The term "pop art" is short for "popular art".
• Pop art is important because it changed the definition of art and made it accessible to everyone, not just museum-goers.

Key Features of Pop Art

• Uses everyday subject matter, such as common objects and people.
• Employs bold new styles, including collage, printmaking, ben-dots, and playing with scale.
• Makes use of popular imagery, taken from mass media and popular culture.

Famous Pop Art Artists

• Richard Hamilton
• Andy Warhol
• Roy Lichtenstein
• James Rosenquist
• Claes Oldenburg
• Jean-Michel Basquiat
• Pauline Boty

Analyzing Pop Artworks

• Choose an original artwork by one of the famous pop art artists.
• Analyze the artwork using the following questions:
  • What subject matter is used?
  • How does this fit into popular culture of the time?
  • What techniques are used to create the artwork?
  • How does the artwork connect with the audience?

Pop Art Techniques

• Collage: combining different materials and objects to create a new whole.
• (Silk-screen) printmaking: creating multiple copies of an image using a screen.
• Ben-dots: using small dots to create an image.
• Playing with scale: changing the size of objects to create a new effect.

Exercise: Design Your Own Soup Can

• Create a modern-day pop art piece inspired by everyday objects.
• Use bold new styles and techniques, such as collage and printmaking.
• Experiment with different artistic styles and expressions.

Comic Book / Anime Drawing Exercise

• Choose a character from a favorite comic book or anime series.
• Experiment with bold features, expressive poses, and different artistic styles.
• Incorporate personal touches and add colorful details to create a unique version.
• Reflect on the reactions of peers and how the use of familiar subject matter enhances the connection with the audience.

Explore the beginnings of Pop Art, its everyday subject matter, and the debates surrounding its mass production and artistic value. Understand the inspirations and cultural significance of this modern art movement.