How to Decorate with 70s and 80s Art: Create a Retro Home Vibe

The 70s and 80s were iconic decades, each with its own distinctive style that has had a lasting impact on design trends across various mediums, from fashion to interior design. These decades saw bold colors, dynamic patterns, and experimental forms in art and design, creating a visual language that continues to resonate today. Incorporating 70s and 80s art into your home is an exciting way to create a retro vibe, transforming your space with vibrant energy, nostalgia, and personality.

The Impact of 70s and 80s Art on Interior Design

Art in the 1970s

Art in the 1970s was a time of great change, both in society and within the art world. The decade saw a dramatic shift from the formalities of the 1960s, embracing a more relaxed and free-spirited approach to creativity. The rise of individualism, rebellion, and freedom defined the cultural and social landscape, which was reflected in the art of the time. While movements like Pop Art, Minimalism, and Abstract Expressionism continued to influence the scene, the 1970s also saw new styles emerge, marking a period of experimentation and rebellion in the art world.

The 1970s were a transformative period in art, influenced heavily by the political and social climate. The decade was marked by a desire for personal freedom, which artists channeled into their work. Art became a vehicle for self-expression, and artists sought to break away from conventions, rejecting the established norms that had dominated the earlier part of the 20th century. As societal issues such as civil rights, gender equality, and the ongoing Vietnam War affected people's lives, artists used their work as a way to reflect and respond to these larger issues.

Pop Art, which had emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, continued to dominate the art scene in the 1970s, but it evolved in response to the cultural changes of the time. While Pop Art initially celebrated consumer culture and mass media, in the 1970s, artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Claes Oldenburg began to take a more ironic and reflective approach. Warhol's portraits of celebrities and everyday objects, for instance, became symbols of mass consumption and the commodification of art. Artists in this period began to critique the very commercial systems that had helped to elevate them to fame.

At the same time, Minimalism, which had emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s, continued to be a significant influence. Minimalist artists stripped away any unnecessary elements from their work, focusing on geometric shapes, industrial materials, and simplicity. In the 1970s, this movement began to shift, blending with conceptual art. Conceptual art emphasized ideas over aesthetics, pushing the boundaries of what art could be. Artists like Sol LeWitt and Joseph Kosuth challenged traditional ideas of what could be considered art, often emphasizing the process of creating and the concept behind the work rather than the finished piece itself.

Abstract Expressionism, a movement that had thrived in the 1940s and 1950s, continued to influence the art world in the 1970s. The emotional, spontaneous, and expressive qualities of Abstract Expressionism continued to resonate with artists throughout the decade. However, in the 1970s, Abstract Expressionism became more introspective, with artists like Joan Mitchell and Cy Twombly bringing new interpretations to the style. The emotional intensity of these works was paired with a sense of personal reflection and an interest in the inner workings of the human psyche.

The 1970s was also a decade that saw the emergence of new movements and artistic trends. One of the most notable of these was Photorealism. Photorealist artists sought to replicate photographs with such precision that their paintings appeared indistinguishable from the real thing. Artists such as Chuck Close and Richard Estes became known for their hyper-detailed and realistic depictions of everyday scenes, often highlighting the beauty and intricacy of the world that was often overlooked. Photorealism challenged traditional notions of what was possible in painting, emphasizing technique and precision in ways that were previously unseen in art.

In addition to these movements, the 1970s witnessed the rise of Feminist Art, which played a crucial role in redefining the art world. Female artists began to challenge the patriarchal structures that had long dominated the art world and sought to reclaim a space for women in artistic practice. Figures like Judy Chicago and Miriam Schapiro used their work to explore issues related to gender, sexuality, and the representation of women in art. Chicago's iconic piece, "The Dinner Party," became a symbol of feminist art, celebrating women's contributions to history while also critiquing the erasure of female figures from traditional art narratives.

The 1970s was also a time of artistic experimentation, where artists began to blend different mediums and approaches. Installation art, performance art, and video art became prominent, with artists using new technologies to challenge the boundaries of traditional art forms. Artists like Nam June Paik and Bruce Nauman used video and performance to explore themes of time, space, and the relationship between the artist and the viewer.

Art in the 1980s

The 1980s were a decade marked by boldness, excess, and an embrace of luxury. It was a time when consumerism, media culture, and expanding abstract art collided, creating an art world that was both dynamic and highly reflective of the times. Artists in the 1980s moved away from the minimalist ethos that had defined the 1970s and instead embraced a vibrant, extravagant aesthetic. The art of the 1980s reflected the growing influence of mass media, consumer culture, and the increasing commercialization of art, while also exploring themes of identity, politics, and the role of the artist in a rapidly changing world.

One of the defining characteristics of art in the 1980s was its embrace of boldness and excess. Unlike the restrained minimalism of the 1970s, which favored clean lines and simplicity, the 1980s saw an explosion of color, texture, and form. Artists sought to make a statement, creating large-scale works that were visually striking and full of energy. The use of bright, neon colors, oversized forms, and dramatic compositions became synonymous with the art of this era. The emphasis was no longer on subtlety or understatement but on making a powerful impact. This shift was mirrored in the culture at large, which was characterized by an obsession with excess, wealth, and the pursuit of personal success.

The rise of consumerism played a major role in shaping the art of the 1980s. As the global economy boomed, the influence of advertising, branding, and media culture became increasingly pervasive. Artists began to incorporate these elements into their work, often using the language of advertising and popular culture to comment on the consumer-driven society. One of the most famous examples of this is the work of Andy Warhol, who continued to have a significant influence in the 1980s. Warhol's iconic Campbell’s soup cans and celebrity portraits had already made him a key figure in the Pop Art movement, but in the 1980s, his work became more focused on consumerism, fame, and the commodification of art. His famous silkscreen paintings of celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elizabeth Taylor became symbolic of the era's obsession with fame, beauty, and material wealth.

In the 1980s, the art world also saw the rise of Neo-Expressionism, a movement that rejected the minimalism and conceptualism of the previous decades. Artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Julian Schnabel, and Anselm Kiefer embraced the raw, emotional qualities of art, using distorted figures, intense brushstrokes, and symbolic imagery to explore themes of identity, power, and social issues. Neo-Expressionism was a reaction against the cool detachment of Minimalism and Conceptual Art, embracing instead an art that was personal, visceral, and often chaotic. The movement was also influenced by graffiti, street art, and the DIY ethos that emerged in urban centers during the 1980s.

Jean-Michel Basquiat was one of the most influential figures of this movement. His paintings were characterized by bold, graffiti-inspired lines, vibrant colors, and a raw, unpolished style that often incorporated text, symbols, and social commentary. Basquiat’s work addressed issues such as race, class, power, and identity, often critiquing the structures of authority and the dominance of Western culture. His art was deeply personal, reflecting his own experiences as a young Black man in America, but it also resonated with broader themes of alienation and social injustice. Basquiat’s work became highly sought after in the 1980s, and he quickly rose to prominence in the New York art scene. His paintings, which often combined childlike imagery with sophisticated references to art history and culture, became emblematic of the decade's embrace of complexity and contradiction.

The 1980s also saw the continued expansion of abstract art, which had been a dominant force in the art world since the mid-20th century. However, by this point, abstract art had evolved into new forms, as artists sought to challenge and expand the boundaries of abstraction. Artists like Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly, and Donald Judd, who had previously been associated with Minimalism, began to explore more complex, layered forms of abstraction. This period saw the rise of what is sometimes referred to as "Postmodern Abstraction," where artists incorporated elements of geometric abstraction, color field painting, and even pop culture references into their work.

At the same time, there was a growing interest in new media and experimental techniques. The 1980s marked the rise of video art, photography, and installation art, as artists began to explore new ways of expressing themselves and engaging with their audiences. The use of technology in art became more prevalent, as artists experimented with video installations, photography, and performance to create immersive, multi-sensory experiences. Artists like Nam June Paik and Bill Viola were pioneers in video art, using technology to explore themes of time, memory, and the human condition. The increased accessibility of video equipment and other technologies opened up new possibilities for artistic expression, allowing artists to reach broader audiences and push the boundaries of traditional art forms.

Another important development in the 1980s was the increasing commercialization of art. With the rise of wealthy collectors and the growing influence of the art market, artists began to navigate the intersection of art and commerce in new ways. The 1980s saw the rise of the "art star," as certain artists became celebrities in their own right, with their works being sold for millions of dollars. The art market boomed during this period, and galleries, auction houses, and museums became key players in the business of art. The commercialization of art was both a reflection of and a reaction to the excesses of the decade, with artists using their work to critique consumer culture even as they became part of it.

In terms of artistic themes, the 1980s were a time of intense social and political engagement. Many artists addressed issues such as war, race, gender, and inequality, using their work to comment on the world around them. Feminist artists, in particular, gained visibility during this period, as they sought to challenge the male-dominated art world and redefine representations of women in art. Artists like Barbara Kruger, Cindy Sherman, and Jenny Holzer used their work to interrogate ideas of identity, gender, and power, often using text and photography to address issues of societal norms and media representation. Their work was characterized by a sense of irony, humor, and critique, reflecting the decade's growing interest in questioning authority and tradition.

The 1980s were also a time of increasing cultural globalization, as the influence of the art world expanded beyond the United States and Europe. Artists from around the world began to gain recognition on the international stage, bringing new perspectives and ideas to the global art scene. The 1980s saw the emergence of artists from Latin America, Asia, and Africa, whose work challenged Western notions of art and aesthetics. The rise of biennials, art fairs, and international exhibitions further expanded the reach of global contemporary art, and the 1980s became a time of greater cultural exchange and collaboration.

Key Styles and Movements of 70s and 80s Art

1. Psychedelic Art (1970s)

The movement grew alongside the cultural shifts of the late 1960s and early 1970s, a time of rebellion against mainstream norms, political unrest, and an increasing interest in spirituality and alternative lifestyles. Artists from various disciplines, including painting, graphic design, and music, embraced this new form of expression as a way to visually articulate the mind-bending experiences of altered states of consciousness. Psychedelic art became synonymous with the cultural revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, helping to shape the aesthetic and values of the time.

Key elements of psychedelic art included intense and often neon colors, swirling patterns, and distorted or dreamlike representations of reality. The influence of the Surrealist movement was evident in the work of many psychedelic artists, who often employed visual tricks, visual paradoxes, and unusual perspectives to create a sense of disorientation. The style was also closely linked to the Art Nouveau movement, especially in its use of fluid, organic lines and intricate detail. The art often incorporated elements of fantasy, mysticism, and Eastern philosophies, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that reflected the heightened sensory experiences associated with the use of psychedelic drugs.

One of the most recognizable features of psychedelic art was its use of bright, saturated colors. Artists used a palette that often included vivid pinks, greens, purples, and oranges, which conveyed the emotional intensity and altered states that were central to the psychedelic experience. These colors were not merely decorative but served to evoke a sense of visual stimulation, mimicking the colorful hallucinations often associated with drug-induced states. The use of these bright colors helped to create an almost electric, otherworldly energy in the artwork.

The fluid, undulating lines and patterns found in psychedelic art were also central to the style. Swirling, organic forms that appeared to move or shift were often used to represent the fluidity of thought and perception in the psychedelic experience. These patterns often felt alive, creating a sense of motion and transformation that was reflective of the altered states of consciousness that many people sought through psychedelic drug use. The organic shapes in psychedelic art were also a nod to the natural world, with influences from flora, fauna, and even cellular structures often appearing in the artwork. This organic aspect of psychedelic art was linked to the growing interest in nature, environmentalism, and the desire to connect with the earth on a deeper level, which was a hallmark of the counterculture movement of the time.

One of the most famous figures in the world of psychedelic art was artist Peter Max, whose iconic use of vibrant colors, psychedelic shapes, and whimsical patterns defined the visual aesthetic of the 1970s. Max’s work often featured surreal portraits, cosmic imagery, and dreamlike landscapes, all executed in a bold and highly saturated color palette. His art captured the optimism and sense of exploration that characterized the era. Max’s iconic “cosmic” imagery, which included stars, planets, and abstract forms, became synonymous with the 1960s and 1970s counterculture, helping to shape the visual culture of the time.

Another influential figure in psychedelic art was Rick Griffin, whose work was heavily linked to the music scene of the 1960s and 1970s. Griffin was a graphic designer and illustrator who created some of the most famous posters for concerts, particularly for bands like the Grateful Dead. His poster designs featured the swirling, organic forms and vibrant colors that became staples of the psychedelic style. Griffin’s work was heavily influenced by the hippie movement and the free-spirited ethos of the time, incorporating elements of fantasy, mysticism, and surrealism into his designs. His intricate drawings were often a reflection of the expanding consciousness that many associated with the use of psychedelics, capturing the feeling of stepping into an alternate, dreamlike reality.

The role of music in the development of psychedelic art cannot be overstated. Psychedelic rock, which grew in popularity during the late 1960s and early 1970s, played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and themes of psychedelic art. Bands like Pink Floyd, Jefferson Airplane, and The Grateful Dead not only created music that was linked to the psychedelic experience but also embraced psychedelic visual imagery. Album covers, concert posters, and promotional materials for these bands often featured psychedelic art, further cementing the association between the music and the visual aesthetic of the time.

The 1970s also saw the proliferation of psychedelic posters and album covers, which became some of the most iconic and enduring examples of the style. The work of graphic designers and illustrators like Wes Wilson, Stanley Mouse, and Alton Kelley helped to define the look of psychedelic rock, with their vivid use of color, intricate typography, and surreal imagery. These posters were often highly detailed and complex, with distorted or flowing text that mirrored the sense of altered perception that was central to the psychedelic experience. They were designed to evoke a sense of excitement, energy, and rebellion, reflecting the cultural and social upheaval of the time.

While psychedelic art was initially associated with the counterculture movement, it soon became mainstream, especially in the realm of commercial art and design. The aesthetics of psychedelic art began to influence advertising, fashion, and graphic design, with designers incorporating bold colors, flowing lines, and surreal imagery into a variety of products. The vibrant, electric colors and abstract forms that defined psychedelic art could be seen in everything from album covers to clothing, interior design, and even advertisements. This mainstream embrace of psychedelic art further solidified its place in the visual culture of the 1970s.

How to Incorporate Psychedelic Art in Your Home:

• Look for posters or prints that feature swirling patterns, neon colors, and dreamlike imagery.

• Hang psychedelic art in spaces where you want to add a burst of energy, such as living rooms or entertainment areas.

• Combine psychedelic art with neutral furniture to let the artwork stand out.

2. Geometric Abstraction (1970s)

Geometric abstraction emerged as a dominant style in the 1970s, building on the foundations laid by earlier abstract artists like Piet Mondrian and Kazimir Malevich. This style was defined by its use of simple geometric shapes, straight lines, and an emphasis on structure and order. Unlike the free-flowing forms of abstract expressionism or the chaotic, colorful imagery of psychedelic art, geometric abstraction was grounded in precision, symmetry, and rationality. Artists focused on creating compositions that were devoid of representational imagery, instead utilizing the clarity and simplicity of geometric shapes to convey meaning.

One of the primary goals of geometric abstraction was to create visual harmony and balance using basic shapes and color. The movement embraced the idea that art could be reduced to its fundamental components, with geometric forms serving as the building blocks of all visual expression. Through this reductionist approach, geometric abstraction sought to strip away unnecessary details and distractions, allowing the viewer to engage with the purest elements of form and color.

Prominent artists such as Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly, and Bridget Riley were key figures in the development of geometric abstraction during the 1970s. Their work often focused on the use of bold colors, sharp lines, and repetitive patterns to create striking compositions that were both visually stimulating and conceptually rigorous. These artists rejected the emotionalism and subjectivity of earlier movements like abstract expressionism, instead opting for a more objective, rational approach to art-making.

Frank Stella, one of the most influential artists in the geometric abstraction movement, became known for his use of precisely delineated geometric shapes and vibrant color palettes. Stella’s work often featured hard-edged forms, including squares, rectangles, and circles, which were arranged in intricate patterns to create dynamic compositions. His “Black Paintings” from the late 1950s, for instance, were characterized by alternating bands of black and white, with sharp, angular lines that created a sense of depth and movement. By the 1970s, Stella’s work had evolved, incorporating more complex, three-dimensional shapes and a wider range of colors. His use of geometric forms continued to evolve, but he remained committed to the idea of art as a precise, systematic endeavor, where form and color could be used to explore space, balance, and harmony.

Ellsworth Kelly, another key figure in the geometric abstraction movement, was known for his large, bold color fields and minimalist approach to form. Kelly’s work focused on the relationship between color and shape, often using vibrant, flat blocks of color to create compositions that were visually striking yet simple. His paintings often featured large, solid fields of color arranged in geometric configurations, such as rectangles or curves. Kelly’s work in the 1970s, particularly his exploration of color through geometric abstraction, helped to cement the idea that color itself could be used as a primary element in creating art. His paintings were not merely exercises in color theory, however; they were deeply influenced by the physicality of the canvas and the space it occupied, inviting the viewer to experience the work both visually and spatially.

The use of geometric abstraction in the 1970s also paralleled the rise of minimalism, another key movement of the time. Minimalist artists, like Donald Judd and Dan Flavin, emphasized simplicity and form, focusing on the basic elements of art to create compositions that were both stark and powerful. Geometric abstraction, with its emphasis on clean lines and ordered compositions, shared many of the same ideals as minimalism, but it placed a greater emphasis on the visual impact of color and form. The two movements often overlapped, with artists borrowing from each other’s techniques and approaches.

Geometric abstraction was also influenced by the increasing interest in technology and modern design during the 1970s. The growth of the computer age, the rise of architectural minimalism, and the development of new materials and techniques all played a role in shaping the way artists approached geometric abstraction. Artists like Victor Vasarely, whose work explored the intersections of art and technology, used geometric patterns and optical illusions to create visually engaging works that challenged the viewer’s perception. The precision of geometric forms and the use of color as a tool for visual exploration were central to Vasarely’s work, as he sought to create a harmonious balance between art, technology, and the viewer’s experience.

In addition to its visual impact, geometric abstraction was also a philosophical statement. The movement was based on the idea that art could be both rational and emotional, that geometric shapes and precise color relationships could evoke feelings and ideas without the need for narrative or representational imagery. Geometric abstraction represented a shift away from the subjective, emotional content of earlier modernist movements, offering a more intellectual approach to art that emphasized clarity, order, and structure.

As the 1970s progressed, geometric abstraction began to influence other areas of design, including architecture, graphic design, and industrial design. The use of clean lines, geometric forms, and bold colors became a defining characteristic of modernist design in the 1970s. The influence of geometric abstraction was seen in everything from furniture design to album covers to the layout of corporate logos. The movement helped to shape the visual language of the era, creating a distinct aesthetic that was clean, modern, and visually arresting.

Geometric abstraction also found its way into the world of commercial and industrial design, where artists and designers began to use geometric forms and bold colors in advertising, product packaging, and even clothing design. The movement’s focus on simplicity and clarity made it well-suited for these applications, as the clean lines and striking visuals of geometric abstraction were highly effective in catching the viewer’s attention. The influence of artists like Frank Stella and Ellsworth Kelly could be seen in the bold, graphic design elements that became ubiquitous in 1970s advertising, where sharp geometric shapes and vibrant colors were used to create memorable, visually impactful designs.

How to Incorporate Geometric Abstraction in Your Home:

• Look for large canvas prints or framed posters that feature geometric patterns and vibrant colors.

• Use geometric art to balance out more organic or nature-inspired elements in your home.

• Pair geometric abstraction with mid-century modern furniture for a cohesive 70s-inspired look.

3. Memphis Design (1980s)

Memphis design emerged in the 1980s as a bold and playful reaction against the restrained simplicity of minimalist design. While minimalism focused on clean lines, neutral colors, and the stripping away of ornamentation, Memphis design embraced excess, chaos, and vibrant experimentation. It was a revolutionary style that aimed to break free from conventional design principles and pushed boundaries in terms of color, shape, and form. Memphis design was characterized by its use of bold, saturated colors, irregular shapes, and a sense of fun and humor. It was a radical departure from the clean, sleek lines of the 1970s and 1980s modernist design, opting instead for exuberant patterns and eclectic combinations.

The movement was founded in 1981 by Italian architect and designer Ettore Sottsass, who became the figurehead of the Memphis Group, a collective of designers, artists, and architects. Sottsass, along with his collaborators, including Michele De Lucchi, Marco Zanini, and Nathalie du Pasquier, sought to challenge the established norms of design by creating pieces that were bold, expressive, and intentionally non-functional. The Memphis Group was inspired by postmodernism, a cultural movement that rejected the austere, functional approach of modernism in favor of vibrant, decorative styles that embraced irony, humor, and cultural references.

Memphis design was influenced by a wide range of sources, including Art Deco, pop art, and punk culture. The design aesthetic was heavily inspired by the graphic design and visual culture of the 1980s, with its emphasis on sharp contrasts, exaggerated forms, and playful patterns. Memphis designers drew on the aesthetics of popular culture, incorporating references to everyday life, commercial objects, and the bright colors found in advertising and television.

One of the defining features of Memphis design was its use of geometric shapes and patterns. The style was characterized by asymmetrical, angular forms, with pieces often featuring bold squares, triangles, and circles in contrasting colors. This departure from traditional furniture design made Memphis pieces stand out as more sculptural and art-like, rather than purely functional. The juxtaposition of these geometric forms created a sense of movement and energy in the designs, further amplified by the use of bright, vibrant colors. Neon pinks, electric blues, sunny yellows, and bold blacks and whites dominated Memphis designs, creating a visual impact that was impossible to ignore.

Furniture and home décor pieces created in the Memphis style were often highly unconventional and deliberately non-functional. Chairs, tables, lamps, and shelving units were designed not only as functional objects but as statements of individuality and artistic expression. Memphis designers embraced the notion that design could be both beautiful and impractical, rejecting the idea that every object needed to serve a specific, utilitarian purpose. These objects were often asymmetrical, irregular, and far from ergonomically sound, but they were celebrated for their boldness and originality. For example, one of Sottsass's most iconic pieces, the "Carlton" bookcase, featured a colorful, angular design that resembled a sculptural work of art more than a practical piece of furniture.

The patterns used in Memphis design were just as important as the shapes and colors. Stripes, polka dots, and squiggly lines were commonly employed, often in bold, contrasting color combinations. The patterns evoked a sense of playfulness and fun, breaking away from the more subdued, minimalist aesthetics that had dominated design in previous decades. Memphis designers also frequently used materials that were unconventional for furniture, such as laminate, terrazzo, and plastic. These materials allowed for a wider range of colors and finishes, contributing to the eclectic, dynamic nature of the design.

Memphis design’s emphasis on ornamentation and decorative patterns set it apart from the minimalist designs of the 1970s. While minimalism sought to eliminate unnecessary decoration and create a sense of purity and calm, Memphis design celebrated the decorative elements that had been dismissed in earlier modernist design. In doing so, Memphis designers challenged the notion that form must always follow function. Instead, they argued that design could be playful, expressive, and non-utilitarian, embracing the idea that objects could exist simply for the joy of their form.

The movement was short-lived but had a profound impact on the design world. The Memphis Group's influence extended beyond furniture and interior design and infiltrated fashion, graphic design, and architecture. The bold colors, geometric patterns, and eccentric shapes of Memphis design became symbolic of the 1980s, reflecting the decade's consumerism, excess, and obsession with style. The movement had a significant impact on the visual language of the era, influencing everything from album covers to advertising campaigns. In particular, Memphis design was embraced by the fashion industry, where its bold patterns and colors became synonymous with the glamour and excess of 1980s fashion.

Despite its short-lived period of dominance, Memphis design left an enduring legacy. Many of its principles can still be seen in contemporary design today, particularly in the world of graphic design and digital art. The use of bold colors, playful shapes, and eclectic patterns has continued to influence designers, with many adopting a more postmodern approach to design that embraces both function and aesthetics. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Memphis design, with collectors and designers alike looking back at the bold, experimental pieces of the 1980s and incorporating them into modern design concepts.

The revival of Memphis design has been driven by a desire for more colorful, expressive, and visually stimulating interiors. In a world increasingly dominated by neutral tones and minimalist spaces, Memphis design provides an antidote, offering a way to bring personality and vibrancy back into the home. The colorful and playful aesthetic of Memphis design fits particularly well in contemporary homes, where it can be used to add visual interest and a sense of fun to modern interiors.

How to Incorporate Memphis Design in Your Home:

• Look for abstract prints that feature bold colors and quirky patterns, reminiscent of Memphis design.

• Mix and match colorful geometric art with furniture that features angular shapes and bright colors.

• Memphis-style artwork can work well in spaces like dining rooms or kitchens, where you want to add a playful, energetic vibe.

4. Pop Art (1980s)

Pop Art, which initially rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, experienced a significant resurgence in the 1980s, capturing the essence of the decade’s obsession with consumerism, celebrity culture, and mass media. While Pop Art of the earlier decades focused on consumer products, advertisements, and everyday objects, the 1980s saw artists pushing the boundaries of the movement, blending traditional techniques with contemporary references to television, fashion, music, and the emerging celebrity culture that defined the era.

Pop art in the 1980s was marked by its bold use of color, graphic design elements, and playful engagement with popular culture. Artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Keith Haring were at the forefront of this resurgence, creating works that not only celebrated mass media but also critiqued it. These artists, along with others in the 1980s, used the language of popular culture to address issues of consumerism, media saturation, and the commodification of art and identity.

One of the key aspects of 1980s Pop Art was its embrace of bright, saturated colors and graphic compositions. Warhol’s iconic silkscreen prints of celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley continued to influence artists in the 1980s, with works that adopted a similar bold, commercial aesthetic. This use of color and mass-production techniques elevated the ordinary, such as the Campbell’s Soup cans or Coca-Cola bottles, into high art, making a statement about the relationship between art, commerce, and popular culture.

Warhol's influence extended far beyond the boundaries of visual art, and in the 1980s, his impact was felt in the world of music, fashion, and celebrity culture. His work and persona had a significant effect on the way art was consumed and understood. Warhol's embrace of consumerism and media culture made him an influential figure in the 1980s, as his early works continued to inspire a new generation of artists who were fascinated by the intersection of art and mass media.

Another key figure in the resurgence of Pop Art during the 1980s was Roy Lichtenstein, known for his comic book-inspired paintings. Lichtenstein’s signature style involved using the visual language of comic books—bold lines, bright colors, and Ben-Day dots—to create large-scale paintings that referenced popular culture. His work often blurred the line between fine art and commercial illustration, creating a conversation around the role of popular media in the art world. Lichtenstein’s use of mass media imagery, combined with his artistic technique, created a visual vocabulary that was instantly recognizable and resonated with the culture of the 1980s, which was increasingly defined by its connection to commercial imagery.

Keith Haring, an artist who emerged from the graffiti scene of New York City in the early 1980s, brought a unique style to the Pop Art resurgence. Known for his cartoonish figures and bold, graphic lines, Haring’s work was both playful and politically charged. His art often carried a strong social message, addressing issues such as AIDS awareness, apartheid, and LGBTQ+ rights. Despite the social themes, his works retained the joyful, colorful elements of Pop Art. Haring’s work became widely recognizable, with his graffiti-inspired figures appearing on murals, public spaces, and even merchandise. His art was designed to be accessible, just as much a part of the street culture as the gallery scene, contributing to the democratization of art in the 1980s.

In the 1980s, the use of mass media imagery in Pop Art took on a more commercialized, self-reflexive tone. The emergence of cable television, music videos, and consumer-driven advertising created a perfect storm for Pop Art’s comeback. Artists in the 1980s capitalized on this media explosion, using their work to critique and comment on the over-saturation of media and advertising in everyday life. The use of consumer products and celebrity icons in Pop Art during this period was not just an homage to mass culture but a commentary on its commodification.

Pop art’s rise in the 1980s also coincided with the explosion of celebrity culture. The media frenzy surrounding musicians like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince led to a flood of imagery that was consumed by the public. Artists began to produce works that incorporated the aesthetics of celebrity culture, creating paintings, prints, and sculptures that celebrated or satirized the world of fame. Warhol’s famous assertion that “in the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes” reflected the growing obsession with celebrity and the ephemeral nature of fame, a theme that was explored by many 1980s Pop artists.

The 1980s saw Pop Art as more than just a movement; it became a visual language that was inextricably tied to the cultural moment. The explosion of media, the rise of consumerism, and the emphasis on visual branding in the 1980s were all integral to the ways in which Pop Art evolved during the decade. The connection between art, advertising, and entertainment was stronger than ever, and artists embraced the opportunity to merge these realms.

The boldness of 1980s Pop Art was also reflected in its incorporation of new materials and methods. While early Pop Art was often associated with traditional media like oil paint and printmaking, artists in the 1980s began experimenting with new forms of production. Many artists embraced new technologies, such as video, photography, and even digital art, to create works that were more accessible and interactive. These new methods of art-making, combined with the ongoing celebration of consumer goods and media imagery, gave Pop Art a more contemporary, cutting-edge feel.

How to Incorporate Pop Art in Your Home:

• Look for prints that feature iconic symbols, celebrities, or commercial imagery in bright colors.

• Pop art works well in modern, urban spaces and can add a touch of fun and irony to your décor.

• Use pop art to create focal points in living rooms or home offices, where you want to make a statement.

Creating a Retro Vibe with 70s and 80s Art

Now that we’ve covered the history and key characteristics of 70s and 80s art, it’s time to explore how you can decorate with these art styles to create a retro vibe in your home. Here are some tips on how to incorporate the boldness, energy, and nostalgia of 70s and 80s art into your home décor.

1. Choosing the Right Art Pieces

When selecting 70s and 80s art for your home, it’s important to choose pieces that align with the overall aesthetic you want to create. For example, if you want to create a cozy, earthy retro vibe, look for art that features warm tones and natural motifs. If you’re after a more vibrant and eclectic feel, opt for bold, graphic pop art or neon-colored abstract works.

Tips for Choosing Art:

• Consider your color palette. Choose art that complements your existing décor and furniture.

• Don’t be afraid to mix different styles. Combine geometric prints with more organic, nature-inspired art to create a balanced, dynamic space.

• Look for large statement pieces that can become focal points in your room.

2. Displaying Art in Your Home

How you display your 70s and 80s art is just as important as the pieces you choose. The right placement and framing can help enhance the retro vibe in your space.

Tips for Displaying Art:

• Hang art in groupings to create visual interest. Try mixing different sizes and styles of art to create a gallery wall.

• Use bold frames that match the style of your art. For example, gold or wooden frames work well with psychedelic and pop art, while sleek black frames are great for geometric abstraction.

• Consider the room’s function when choosing where to place art. For example, bright, energetic art works well in living rooms, while more subdued pieces can add warmth to bedrooms or home offices.

3. Complementing Art with Retro Furnishings and Décor

To truly capture the essence of the 70s and 80s, pair your art with retro-inspired furniture and accessories. Look for vintage or retro-inspired pieces that feature bold colors, geometric shapes, and funky patterns.

Tips for Complementing Your Art:

• Mix vintage furniture with modern décor for a truly eclectic retro vibe.

• Look for bold patterned textiles, such as shag rugs, throw pillows, and curtains, that complement the colors and forms in your art.

• Add retro lighting fixtures, such as lava lamps, pendant lights, or neon signs, to enhance the atmosphere.

Conclusion

Incorporating 70s and 80s art into your home is a fantastic way to infuse your space with energy, personality, and nostalgia. Whether you’re drawn to the earthy tones and geometric shapes of the 70s or the bold colors and graphic designs of the 80s, there’s a wealth of artistic styles to explore. By carefully selecting and displaying art, and complementing it with retro furnishings and accessories, you can create a home that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, offering a unique space that celebrates the best of these iconic decades.

References

1. "Pop Art" by Lucy Lippard

2. "Warhol" by Blake Gopnik

3. "Keith Haring: The Authorized Biography" by John Gruen

4. "Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective" by Robert Rosenblum

5. "The Rise of Fashion and Pop Culture: A History of 1980s Style" by J. L. Williams

Read also How to Mix Abstract and Traditional Art for an Eclectic Home.

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