Consumer culture

Definition

Consumer culture refers to a social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. This culture is characterized by the values, behaviors, and practices surrounding consumerism, where personal identity and societal status are often tied to material possessions. The rise of consumer culture has significantly influenced art movements, particularly during the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art, as artists began to respond to the commodification of art and everyday life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Consumer culture emerged prominently in the post-World War II era when increased production capabilities and disposable incomes led to a boom in consumption.
2. Artists began to reflect on consumer culture in their work, leading to a shift from the emotional expression of Abstract Expressionism to the imagery and themes of everyday consumer goods in Pop Art.
3. Advertising played a crucial role in shaping consumer culture, promoting products as symbols of social status and personal identity.
4. Pop Art artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein utilized commercial techniques and imagery, blurring the lines between high art and popular culture.
5. The critique of consumer culture found in both Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art illustrates how artists responded to the changing landscape of American society and its values.

Review Questions

• How did consumer culture influence the shift from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art?
  • Consumer culture had a profound impact on the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art as artists began to reflect societal changes where consumption became central to identity. While Abstract Expressionism focused on emotional depth and personal expression, Pop Art embraced imagery from mass media and commercial products. This shift allowed artists to critique or celebrate consumer culture, making everyday items subjects of artistic merit.
• In what ways did advertising shape consumer culture during the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art?
  • Advertising played a pivotal role in shaping consumer culture by promoting goods as extensions of personal identity and social status. As artists transitioned from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art, they began incorporating advertisements and commercial aesthetics into their work. This incorporation highlighted how advertising influenced perceptions of beauty and desire, transforming how art was created and consumed.
• Evaluate the impact of consumer culture on the identity of artists in the context of the shift from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art.
  • The impact of consumer culture on artists' identities during this transition was significant. Many artists began to see themselves not just as creators but also as participants in a market-driven economy. This shift prompted them to engage with popular culture directly, often using their work as a commentary on or reflection of societal values surrounding consumption. By embracing or critiquing consumerism through their art, they navigated a new identity that aligned with the cultural zeitgeist of their time.

Related terms

Materialism: A value system that emphasizes the importance of material possessions and physical comfort in life.

Commodification: The process by which goods, services, and even ideas are transformed into commodities that can be bought and sold.

Mass Media: The diverse range of media technologies that reach a large audience via mass communication, influencing consumer behavior and trends.