Frida Kahlo Digital Pop Art by Paula Vaughan

In the mid to late 1950s, the pop art movement exploded around the globe and challenged the traditions of fine art with a colourful and quirky new imagery that grew in popularity both here in the UK and over in the United States.

Iconic works by famous pop artists of the time regularly go under the hammer for millions, but who were the people behind pop art and how are they still inspiring up and coming artists to this day?

In this article, we’ll take a brief glimpse into the lives of some of the most famous artists of this genre as well as showcasing some of the work of new pop artists available on our website.

 

Andy Warhol

Without a doubt, the most well-known pop artist, such was his influence and popularity that Andy Warhol has an extensive collection present in the largest museum in the United States dedicated to a single artist, the Andy Warhol Museum in his native Pittsburgh.

With pieces including the famous Campbell’s Soup Cans, plus portraits of Marilyn Monroe, Diana Vreeland, Truman Capote and Liza Minelli, the works of Andy Warhol explore the relationship between artistic expression, celebrity culture and advertisement that was rife during the 50s and 60s.

 

Roy Fox Lichtenstein

A leading figure in the new pop art movement, Roy Fox Lichtenstein was heavily influenced by comic books and advertisements when creating his famous pieces. His notable works include Drowning Girl, Whaam! and Roast Turkey Shopping Bag.

Lichtenstein often chose to refer to his work as ‘industrial painting’ and we can see the style replicated by many new artists who choose to express themselves using the pop art medium.

 

Keith Haring

A more recent contender for the king of pop art title, Keith Haring focused on more graffiti styled work and was often the creator of spontaneous pieces of art on walls in urban spaces and subways.

Later work from Haring also looked into more political and social themes, with large murals and pieces including Keith and Julia, Installation Shafrazi Gallery 1982 making a real statement with stylised images created on blank advertisement boards.

 

Burger and Chips POP-ART 0492 by Eraclis Artistidou
Burger and Chips POP-ART 0492 by Eraclis Artistidou

New artists

The pop-art movement is still going strong, with several Art2Arts artists showcasing their love of the genre through striking and visually engaging pieces.

Using cooking shows and celebrity food advertising as a muse, artist Eraclis Artistidou’s interpretation of the subject is visually irresistible. For a real style statement, check out Burger and Chips.

Likewise, artist Paula Vaughan has used the image of iconic actress Audrey Hepburn as her muse, using mixed media and a graffiti-like style to replicate the style of pop art greats.

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