The Cultural Subversion Of Barcode Art

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Invented by Bernard Silver in 1948, the barcode went on to become one of the greatest success stories of the late 20th century, adorning most commercially available products around the world. Its omnipresence in modern society makes the barcode particularly appealing to artists, many of whom have featured it in their works.

As well as the power of the barcode as a symbol of commercialism and consumerism, artists are attracted to the bicolour simplicity of the barcode design. While arguably attractive in its own right, the barcode cries out for artistic modification and numerous artists, from Scott Blake to the ubiquitous Banksy, have interpreted it in unique and highly original ways.

(thanks Andy)