FANTASTIC ART! I LOVE IT! What do I call it? What style is it? Maybe you've seen a piece of art with a subject, style, or color palette that grabs your attention and you'd like to know more.
We can't answer all your questions in this article but we can shed light on two extremely popular art genres that include exceptional artists and have gallery exhibitions and many collectors. Please read on...
LOWBROW ART
In the late 1960s and 1970s in Los Angeles, the roots of visual art now termed Lowbrow began. Influenced by comics, punk music, street art and hot rod culture, the movement was rebellious and intended to challenge traditional fine art. What mattered to Lowbrow artists is that most 'regular folks' recognized its pop culture references and humor. This art resonated because it blended nostalgia and satire along with dreamlike and fantasy imagery.
The movement didn't gain the official name Lowbrow until 1994 when artist Robert Williams began 'Juxtapoz' magazine. This magazine featured and promoted what was then 'unconventional' art and artists. It was met from the beginning with success and still continues after more than 30 years.
As for the art genre, it continues to grow and expand. When viewing imagery with vibrant color, surreal and exaggerated figures, and some retro pop references you recognize, you could find yourself looking at Lowbrow art.
Lowbrow characteristics- it makes fun of convention, it has a sense of humor, it draws on recognizable retro pop culture.
Below are examples of Lowbrow and Pop Surrealist art by uber-talented contemporary popular artists. Visit Joe Vaux @joevaux, Dustin Myers @dustinmyersart, Gabriella Padilla @teethlikemilk, and Olga Esther @olgaesther.pinturas to view more of their wonderful and creative art.
POP SURREALISM
Pop Surrealism emerged from Lowbrow and has many similarities. In addition to containing elements of Lowbrow, it added surrealism, similar to what prevailed in the 1920s and 30s, where artists such as Salvador Dali used dreamlike and psychological elements in their work. Besides comics and punk influence, Pop Surrealism was also inspired by Disney illustrations and even Dr. Seuss!
More classical painting techniques and fantastical imagery are used in this genre - but with a contemporary twist. Fine art emphasis, often from Renaissance style, creates a more detailed and refined feel compared to Lowbrow.
Pop Surrealism characteristics - blend of high/low culture, technical skill (shows a mastery of artistic techniques), narrative driven (tells stories), counterculture like Lowbrow.
SUMMARY
Lowbrow and Pop Surrealism art continue to gain more recognition in mainstream galleries, while still maintaining their outsider, rebellious roots. In today's art world, both versions can now be found in galleries and have attracted groups of collectors.
With their retro cultural origins and also counterculture imagery, these two genres have firmly established themselves as influential forces in contemporary art. Look for these works when you visit museums and galleries. They can be inspiring, fun to view, and tell a story.
