Juxtaposition means placing things side-by-side. In art this usually is done with the intention of bringing out a specific quality or creating an effect, particularly when two contrasting or opposing elements are used. The viewer's attention is drawn to the similarities or differences between the elements.
Some well known artists who use juxtaposition are Salvador Dali, Damien Hirst and Frida Kahlo (among many more).
The Two Fridas, 1939, Oil on canvas, 67" x 67" by Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo uses juxtaposition to contrast two sides of her personality
.The Frida on the left represents her more traditional self. Dressed in traditional Mexican clothes she is the weaker of the two the one that her former husband Diego Rivera has rejected. The woman on the right represents a strong and independent Frida , who looks over and protects the traditional Frida.
Damien Hirst Diamond Skull
Diamond Skull- Through his choice of materials Hirst contrasts two extreme opposites. Hirst symbolizes mortality with the use of a skull and eternity with the use of diamonds.
While researching I stumbled upon the artwork of Leslie Holt
Hello Goya 2006 oil on canvas 4x6"
Holt contrasts Goya's The shooting of May 3 1808 with a hello kitty doll. The Goya painting depicts a horrific event of terror and death, the hello kitty doll represents a sense of innocence and virtue.This contrast between a heartless massacre and childhood innocence represents the implementation of juxtaposition in art.
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