How did Pop break down the barriers between 'high' and 'low' culture? Discuss with reference to specific practitioners and their work.

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Sarah Wakefield

0303927

BA (Hons) Graphic Design

Critical and Theoretical Studies

FFC1002: Introduction to Graphic Design History and Culture

How did Pop break down the barriers between 'high' and 'low' culture? Discuss with reference to specific practitioners and their work.

Pop art originated in the 1950s/1960s as a reaction to the post war consumer society. The movement was a result of changing tastes and the increasing influences of American society and culture on Britain. During the Second World War, Britain suffered huge economic losses which had a direct effect on the growth of mass culture. In contrast, America was able to maintain economic growth and this meant that there was rapid growth in consumerism.

At this time there was a distinct difference in what the classes considered 'entertainment' which was referred to as 'high' culture and 'low' culture. Low culture was considered to be kitsch - things in low culture were popular with the masses and in poor taste, these included things such as popular music and cinema. High culture was considered to be things which attracted the upper classes, such as fine art and theatre.

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