What Is the History of Op Art?

Art|Art History

Op art, or optical art, is an abstract visual art form that emerged in the 1950s. It is characterized by its use of geometric shapes and bold colors to create optical illusions. The goal of op art is to produce illusions that manipulate the viewer’s perception of space and light, often creating a sense of movement or vibration.

The roots of op art can be traced back to the early 20th century, when artists such as Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque began experimenting with abstract forms. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, a group of European avant-garde artists known as the “New Vision” began applying these techniques to painting. They sought to create works that were not only aesthetically pleasing, but also had a psychological effect on the viewer.

In 1957, Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely coined the term “op art” to describe his style of abstract painting. He created vibrant works featuring geometric shapes, lines and curves which produced optical illusions when viewed from different angles. His work gained widespread recognition and was featured in several prominent exhibitions throughout Europe and North America.

In 1965, British painter Bridget Riley gained international recognition for her work in op art with her painting “Movement in Squares”. Riley’s work paved the way for a surge in popularity for op art during the 1960s and 1970s as more artists began exploring its use of geometric shapes and bright colors to create optical illusions.

Op art has since been embraced by modern designers who have adapted it for fashion design, interior design, product packaging and graphic design. Its influence can be seen in everything from clothing patterns to furniture fabrics to street signs. Op art has even been utilized in architecture as buildings are designed with curved walls or windows that produce an optical illusion when viewed from certain angles.

Conclusion

Op Art has a long history that dates back to the early 20th century with some of its earliest pioneers being Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Since then it has evolved into a popular form of abstract visual art characterized by its use of geometric shapes and bold colors which create mesmerizing optical illusions when viewed from different angles. Op Art has become so pervasive that it can now be seen everywhere from fashion designs and product packaging to architectural designs.