Modernism

• Modernism is characterized by a rejection of traditional artistic conventions and a focus on innovation, simplicity, and functionality.
• Modernist design encompassed a wide range of disciplines, including architecture, furniture, product design, graphic design, and typography.
• Functionality and Utility: Modernist designers prioritized functionality and utility, designing products that were efficient, practical, and suited to the needs of modern life.
• Simplicity and Minimalism: Modernist design embraced simplicity and minimalism, avoiding ornate decoration and embellishment in favour of clean lines, geometric shapes, and unadorned surfaces.
• Use of Industrial Materials: Modernist designers often embraced industrial materials such as steel, glass, concrete, and plywood, exploiting their inherent properties and aesthetic qualities.
• Where did it begin and why?

  This evolved on from the worldwide art deco style.

  Modernism is symbolised  by key design schools such as the Bauhaus and De Stijl.
• What was happening at this time?

  • As the first world war ended. This had impacted on infrastructure within Europe, resulting in the need to rebuild. This meant an opportunity to modernise and make changes. 
  • Both Bauhaus and De Stijl design schools were formed as the First World War ended.
• Who were the major contributors?

  De Stijl: J.J.P Oud, Piet Mondrian, Gerrit Rietveld, Robert van’t Hoff. 

  Bauhaus: Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer, Mies Van Der Rohe and Marianne Brandt. 
• De Stijl (Netherlands)

  Key features:

  • Use of basic rectilinear forms and primary colour schemes.
  • Designs are largely asymmetrical. 
  • Forms and colour schemes evident in furniture; interiors and architecture.
• Key features:

  • Architecture - Flowing curves and smooth exteriors, bisected with 

        chrome detailing. 

  •  Car design - Aerodynamics affecting developments in car body 

         design. 

  Household objects - Seen as a sign of modernity (following curves).