Emerging in the 1950s and 1960s as a vibrant and influential movement that challenged traditional notions of art and culture, Pop art aimed to provoke thought and critique society's obsession with materialism by appropriating and recontextualizing familiar images. It had a significant cultural influence, bridging the gap between high and low art, and reflecting the spirit of the post-war era. Questioning the boundaries between popular culture and artistic expression, its impact continues to inform the visual language of the current zeitgeist.
The Designera, India's first and only exclusive pop art gallery based in Mumbai aims to nurture contemporary artists and empower pop art as a genre. Founded in 2020 by Amrita Deora, Designera is an incubator for creators that operates by handpicking emerging artists and providing them with all the creative support and tools. Although agnostic to medium, Designera’s portfolio is united by their signature pop art aesthetic. It imbibes the ethos of 'art for art's sake and features pieces that don’t follow any trends, discriminate against mediums or seek out a certain brand of creators but are simply born out of inspired artists.
Beyond the striking aesthetics, Designera delves into the profound social and cultural commentaries that pop art is known for. Through its carefully curated exhibitions, the gallery presents thought-provoking works that address issues such as consumerism, mass media, and the dichotomy of popular culture. These themes resonate deeply with India's rapidly evolving society, making Designera a space for artists and viewers to engage in dialogue and introspection on contemporary issues.
Check out Designera's website here.
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