The Emergence of Modernism

 Modernism really took hold between the 1900s and the 1950s. It took place roughly at the same time as the World Wars. Because of all of the destruction and chaos from the wars, modernism was a chance to redesign the world into what we see today. It took advantage of the technological advances of the time period (skyscrapers, automobiles, trains, etc.) while still acknowledging the tradition of handmade and crafted items. Modernism looked towards functionalist designs, rejecting past historical designs that would often seem to choose ornamentation over function. The main architects of this time were Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Gropius, Ludwig Mies Van de Rohe, and Le Corbusier. 


Modernism really took place in the form of the International Style during the 20s and 30s. All the main architects of the Modernist period were a part of this new style. They all had a core set of three principles, the expression of volume rather than mass, balance in designs rather than preconceived symmetry, and the expulsion of applied ornamentation. They wanted to break away from the traditional form of design to find something more. The designers of the International Style enjoyed working with glass, concrete, and steel, using them to create simplified and transparent buildings. This transparency was had through the use of many windows but also the transparency of construction, leading to a more industrial style of design. 



One Step Further:

While all the main architects have great works that contribute to Modernism and the International Style, Marcel Breuer's work is also very interesting. During this period the "machine" was seen as a source of inspiration and Breuer took this literally. He saw the use of metal in bicycles and looked to incorporate it into his designs. His furniture design reflects this unique use of metal. Below are his Cesca and Wassily chairs. Both take direct inspiration from a bicycle frame. Breuer's Cesca chair also does a great job of showing the simplicity that can be had in furniture design. The cantilevered seat shows the strength of steel and showcases the ability to create functional and simple designs without loosing structural integrity. 


Modernism and the International Style looked towards simplicity and the concept of functionality over form. It did so through the acceptance and use of industrial and technological advances. Today, it serves as an example of the stripping down of a design to it's core base. While ornamentation is not a bad thing, this time period helped show that it was not necessary for good design. I think it is something we designers can learn from. We can often get so caught up in the details or ornamentation that we forget about the core base of the design. We cannot afford to loose this focus on the base, without it there is nothing. 



Additional Information:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6O6ahLjfn8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMEePn1NQ3E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFN9xSuCZUI 
      - (No words but it does a great job of showing Breuer's work and style of design)




Comments

  1. AnonymousFebruary 27, 2021 at 7:32 PM

    Kelly,
    I loved how you talked about Mies van der Rohe's works and how influential he was, along with other famous designers from his time. I liked how you discussed Modernism and the International Style in furniture design. I can see connections between the images of furniture you shared and in modern day designs which is so interesting as designers because we can see trends or the history behind a product or design style that we love and use to this day. Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  2. AbigailFebruary 28, 2021 at 8:58 PM

    Kelly,
    I think you did a really good job of summarizing the basic principles of modernism clearly. It’s interesting how this shift in design was so drastic and yet seems to be one of the most important changes made. Considering aspects of this style are still popular and well-used today makes the entire transition a big turning point for design.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Erica GonzalezFebruary 28, 2021 at 10:01 PM

    I really enjoyed your post on Modernism and how it's influencers have impacted the designs we see today. I liked how you incorporated Marcel Breuer's work. Breuer's Cesca chair is a great example for showing how modernism has been used in furniture. The piece is a simplistic unique design that demonstrates function over form. Also, I can agree that ornamentation and details is not necessary for a good design. Simplicity can go a long way. Overall, great job.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Professor VanderNoordaaMarch 1, 2021 at 10:42 AM

    Kelly,
    Excellent summary of the conditions that brought about Modernism. I also appreciated your summary of the International Style as well as the materials used during this period.
    The three videos that you shared were great. I really loved the Gagarin House!

    ReplyDelete

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