The artwork titled “Pause” created by Bridget Riley in 1964 is a notable example of the Op Art movement. The piece is characterized by its abstract nature, which employs optical illusions to engage and challenge the viewer’s visual perception.
The composition features a field of black dots that vary in size and are arranged in a grid-like pattern. The dots are denser and larger towards the edges and diminish in size towards the center, creating a dynamic and disorienting visual effect. The central vertical strip where the dots seemingly dissolve into the white background, gives rise to the name “Pause,” as it may visually interrupt the rhythmic flow of patterns. This effect is a hallmark of Op Art, an art movement that emerged in the 1960s and focuses on creating optical experiences through abstract patterns and contrasts. Bridget Riley is one of the most prominent figures in this movement, well-known for her ability to create lively, vibrating qualities in static images.
