Postmodernism is a late-20th-century approach to the arts, culture, and architecture that challenges traditional forms, often mixing styles from different eras. A postmodern building might pair a classical column with a brightly colored neon sign.
Postmodernism has several meanings across art, architecture, literature, and philosophy. Its current meaning took shape in literary criticism and architectural theory during the 1950s and 1960s. In art and architecture, postmodernism often blends styles and challenges the division between high art and popular culture. Postmodern artists and writers may borrow from earlier styles, use parody, or mix pop culture with traditional art forms. In philosophy, postmodernism questions universal truths and grand narratives that claim to explain history, knowledge, or society.