op art

American  

Or Op Art

noun

1. a style of abstract art in which lines, forms, and space are organized in such a way as to provide optical illusions of an ambiguous nature, as alternately advancing and receding squares on a flat surface.

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op art British  

/ ɒp /

noun

1. a style of abstract art chiefly concerned with the exploitation of optical effects such as the illusion of movement

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• op artist
  noun
• op-art
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of op art

First recorded in 1960–65; op(tical) art

Example Sentences

“I’ve looked at op art, pattern and decoration. I’ve looked at psychedelia, I have taken part in rave culture and queer culture and drag and the whole spectrum,” Gibson said.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 18, 2024

James Huckenpahler, who often shows computer-generated video work, here exhibits three large prints that recall 1960s op art.

From Washington Post • Feb. 1, 2019

It updates op art of the ’60s to gorgeous and ethereal effect.

From New York Times • Aug. 18, 2016

Director John Waters wore an op art patterned suit by Belgian designer Walter Van Beirendonck.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2015

The culture clash is summed up in the contrast between the character's buttoned-up three-piece grey flannel suit, and his office's op art graphics and Eero Saarinen furniture.

From The Guardian • Apr. 7, 2013