The Responsive Eye at MoMA

“The Responsive Eye” was a groundbreaking exhibition held at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York in 1965. Organised by William C. Seitz, the exhibition showcased the works of over 100 artists, including Bridget Riley, Victor Vasarely, Richard Anuszkiewicz, and Josef Albers, among others. “The Responsive Eye” is often considered one of the most significant exhibitions in the history of Op Art, a movement that emerged in the 1960s and focused on creating optical illusions through abstract geometric patterns and colors.

Bridget Riley played a prominent role in “The Responsive Eye” with her meticulously crafted paintings that utilised repetitive geometric forms and contrasting colours to create optical effects of movement and depth. Riley’s work, along with that of other artists featured in the exhibition, captivated audiences and challenged conventional notions of perception and reality.

The exhibition received a wide range of reviews and critiques. Some critics praised the innovative nature of the artworks on display, hailing them as a refreshing departure from traditional painting styles. They celebrated the way in which the Op Art movement embraced technology and explored new ways of engaging with the viewer.

However, “The Responsive Eye” also faced criticism from some quarters. Some critics argued that the artworks lacked substance and were more concerned with visual spectacle than with conveying any deeper meaning or emotion. Others raised questions about the commercialization of Op Art, suggesting that it had become a trendy and superficial trend rather than a serious artistic movement.

Despite the mixed reviews, “The Responsive Eye” proved to be immensely popular with the public, attracting large crowds throughout its run at MoMA. The exhibition sparked widespread interest in Op Art both in the art world and beyond, influencing fashion, design, and popular culture. It also helped to solidify Bridget Riley’s reputation as one of the leading figures of the Op Art movement, paving the way for her continued success and influence in the years to come.