The World Goes Pop

This groundbreaking book surveys the concurrent engagements with the spirit of Pop throughout the world, from the frequently studied activity in the United States, England, and France to less well-known developments in Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. One of the first publications to examine Pop art with this global scope, it explores the wide-ranging movements that developed in different continents, such as Nouveau realisme, Neo Dada, New Figuration, Cronica de la Realidad, and Saqqakhaneh or Spiritual Pop.

This unique presentation offers the opportunity to compare how Pop art around the world differed due to geography, local traditions, and different cultures’ social and political underpinnings. Fascinating essays touch upon key themes that factored into various Pop movements, including feminism, political representation, sexual politics, and seriality. A bold design and 200 striking illustrations showcase pieces by more than 70 artists, many of whose works have never been exhibited outside their home nations. The book also features a combined interview with a number of the living artists featured within, giving important insight into the thoughts and processes of Pop’s international practitioners.

Jessica Morgan is director of Dia Art Foundation. Flavia Frigeri is curator at Tate Modern.