Who were the Pattern painters and how did they address themes of decoration and ornamentation?

The Pattern painters were a group of artists who emerged in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s. They were influenced by the decorative arts, particularly textiles and wallpaper, and incorporated elements of pattern, decoration, and ornamentation into their work. The Pattern painters rejected the minimalist aesthetic that dominated the art world at the time, and instead embraced a more decorative and ornamental approach to art making.

One of the key themes in Pattern painting is the idea of repetition. Artists would repeat patterns and motifs, creating intricate and visually compelling designs. The use of bright colors and bold shapes was also a hallmark of Pattern painting.

The Pattern painters were interested in breaking down the distinction between fine art and decorative art. They believed that art should be accessible and integrated into everyday life. As such, they often worked on large-scale projects, such as murals and installations, that could be enjoyed by the public.

One critique of Pattern painting is that it is too focused on decoration and ornamentation, and lacks deeper meaning or content. Critics have argued that Pattern painting is merely surface-level, and that the emphasis on decoration detracts from the overall artistic value of the work.