Joe Tilson (b. 1928) is a British artist who emerged as a prominent figure in the Pop Art movement during the 1960s. Known for his vibrant, bold works, Tilson's art blends elements of pop culture with abstract and formalist concerns. His unique approach distinguished him from his American Pop Art contemporaries, as he incorporated a greater emphasis on craftsmanship and materials. Tilson often drew from his background as a carpenter, experimenting with various textures, shapes, and mixed media.

Artistic Style and Themes:

Pop Art and Hard Edge Abstraction: Tilson's work from the 1960s combines the iconography of Pop Art with the geometric precision of Hard Edge Abstraction. His art is characterized by flat planes of color, sharp-edged forms, and a focus on structure, while incorporating references to everyday objects and cultural symbols.

Ziggurat Series: One of Tilson's most recognized works from this period is the "Ziggurat" series, including "Ziggurat 5" (1966). The ziggurat, a stepped pyramid form from ancient Mesopotamian architecture, became a recurring motif in Tilson's art during this time. The shape resonated with his interest in symbolism, spiritual geometry, and non-Western cultures.
"Ziggurat 5" (1966): This piece is a clear example of Hard Edge Pop Art Abstraction—a style defined by sharp, geometric forms and flat, unmodulated color. The ziggurat shape is simplified into bold, flat layers, with bright, contrasting colors that evoke the graphic sensibility of Pop Art. The structure of the ziggurat also represents Tilson's fascination with ancient forms and their modern reinterpretation.

Materials and Approach:

Tilson often used a wide variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and screen printing, to create both two-dimensional works and sculptural objects. His Ziggurat series exemplifies this approach, combining painterly abstraction with a tangible, almost sculptural quality.
Later Career:

After his initial success as a Pop artist, Tilson's work evolved, becoming more focused on myth, ritual, and natural forms. His later works moved away from the mass-media references of Pop Art and explored deeper philosophical and spiritual themes. However, his early works, including Ziggurat 5, remain iconic examples of his engagement with the visual language of the 1960s.
Legacy:

Joe Tilson is regarded as one of Britain's key figures in Pop Art, and his works have been exhibited in major galleries worldwide, including the Tate Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. His contributions to Hard Edge Abstraction, particularly through the Ziggurat series, highlight his unique blend of ancient symbolism with modern art forms.

Tilson’s Ziggurat 5 remains an important part of his legacy, representing both his involvement in the Pop Art movement and his broader interests in cultural and historical symbols.