Pop art is the use of popular images in art. The images are appropriated from different popular culture sources and reinterpreted into a high art form.

It was born in England, but also, independently in New York. Critics and artists were disappointed as they were hoping for something more. However, youth the world over reacted enthusiastically to the art form. Pop's no-nonsense, no-refinement standard was perfect for the 1960s and captured the decade brilliantly, even though its roots were in the 1950s.

Pop art was Art imitating Life. Artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein took imagery from everyday things like advertising, consumer goods and clothing. Eventually Life began to imitate Art again as society ironically used Pop art images in everyday things like advertising, consumer goods and clothing. 

Pop art is still relevant in today’s society because of its connections with our culture. It had a great effect on fashion at the time. Dresses, handbags, shoes, boots, sunglasses and whole outfits emerged looking like Mondrian paintings.

Last updated: June 01, 2003

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