Synthetic Cubism: A Revolution in Applied and Decorative Arts

Historical Perspective: The Evolution of Cubism

Cubism, a groundbreaking movement in art history, is primarily associated with the works of Georges Braque, Pablo Picasso, and Juan Gris. It is widely divided into two phases: Analytical Cubism and Synthetic Cubism. The former, which prevailed around 1907 to 1912, involved deconstructing objects into fragmented, abstract forms. This approach paved the way for Synthetic Cubism, which emerged around 1912 and lasted until about 1914.

Synthetic Cubism: A New Aesthetic in Applied Arts

Synthetic Cubism marked a significant departure from the analytical phase. Artists in this period began to simplify shapes and introduce brighter colours into their work. This phase is characterized by a greater emphasis on adding different textures and patterns, moving away from the complex dissection of forms prevalent in Analytical Cubism.

Incorporating Textures and Patterns

A defining feature of Synthetic Cubism was incorporating non-art materials into paintings. This included using newspaper prints, wallpaper, and various paper patterns, initiating the practice of collage in modern art. This experimentation was not just a stylistic choice but a radical step in blurring the boundaries between high art and everyday materials, a strongly resonating concept in contemporary decorative arts.

Flattening and Simplification

In contrast to Analytical Cubism’s fragmented views, Synthetic Cubism was about flattening the image. This approach avoided the illusion of three-dimensional space, opting for a more direct, less metaphorical representation. The simplified forms and brighter palette lent a new decorative quality to the artworks, aligning them more closely with the principles of applied arts.

Picasso’s Paper Collés: A Prime Example

Pablo Picasso’s paper collés (pasted papers) are often cited as quintessential examples of Synthetic Cubism. These works showcased a revolutionary way of creating compositions using cut-out pieces of paper, often combined with other materials. This method highlighted the inherent decorative aspects of the medium, influencing the fields of interior design, textile design, and other applied arts.

Impact on Modern Decorative Arts

The influence of Synthetic Cubism extends beyond the realm of fine art. Its principles of simplification, incorporation of non-traditional materials, and flattening of forms have been instrumental in shaping modern decorative and applied arts. Designers and artists continue to draw inspiration from this movement, applying its innovative approach to various mediums.

Sources

Tate. Synthetic cubism – Art Term. Tate. https://www.tate.org.uk/art/art-terms/s/synthetic-cubism.

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