Vivid Pop Art on Wood by Ritu Raj

“I am for an art that takes its form from the lines of life itself.”– Claes Oldenburg

“Pop Art looks out into the world; it doesn’t look like a painting of something, it looks like the thing itself.” – Roy Lichtenstein

Art, for me, has always been an evolving dialogue between materials and expression. I began my journey working in black and white, embracing the stark contrasts and raw emotional depth that contemporary monochromatic painting offers. The simplicity of the palette allowed me to focus on form, texture, and movement, creating compositions that were both bold and introspective. However, as my artistic vision expanded, so did my desire to experiment with new techniques and materials.

The transition to pop art was not immediate—it was a process of exploration, driven by my fascination with precision and technology. CNC machines became my tool of choice, enabling me to carve intricate patterns and designs into wood panels with a level of detail that would be nearly impossible by hand. The structured, repetitive nature of these patterns introduced a new rhythm to my work, allowing me to merge craftsmanship with digital precision.

Once the carved wood panels took shape, the real transformation began. Acrylic paints infused the designs with vivid color, creating a striking contrast against the natural grain of the wood. Layer by layer, the compositions became more dynamic, evolving into a celebration of bold hues and energetic patterns. To amplify their visual impact, I coated each piece in epoxy resin—a process that not only enhanced their luminosity but also added a sleek, reflective finish that made the colors appear almost liquid.

What started as a journey in monochrome has now flourished into a vibrant exploration of texture, form, and color. Through this evolution, I have discovered a new way to bridge technology with artistry, bringing my vision to life in ways I never imagined possible.