Understanding Cubism in the Decorative Arts
Cubism, initiated by Picasso and Braque, transformed art by deconstructing objects into geometric shapes, influencing modern aesthetics in fine and decorative arts, architecture, and design.Read More →
January 31, 2025
Czech Cubism, a unique aesthetic movement that flourished in the early 20th century, is a testament to the intricate dance between artistic innovation and practical design. In the realm of applied and decorative arts, Czech Cubists broke the mould quite literally by integrating crystalline structures and geometric fragmentation into everyday objects, making the function fascinating. Furniture, ceramics, and glassware were reimagined as sculptural pieces, where angular lines and dynamic forms disrupted the mundane and transformed the domestic landscape into a living art gallery. This movement not only redefined the aesthetics of practical objects but also offered a multi-dimensional perspective that invites viewers to explore the interplay between light, shadow, and form. How does the assertive geometry of Czech Cubism resonate in your own living space, and in what ways could these transformative designs elevate the mundane to the magnificent in your daily life?
Cubism, initiated by Picasso and Braque, transformed art by deconstructing objects into geometric shapes, influencing modern aesthetics in fine and decorative arts, architecture, and design.Read More →
Jaromir Krejcar (1895-1949), a Czech architect and furniture designer, was a prominent figure in Devétsil group and exhibited internationally. His work was influential and innovative.Read More →
František Zelenka, a Czech architect and designer, made significant contributions to theater design in Prague, blending cubism and constructivism before his tragic death in Auschwitz.Read More →
Josef Pohl, a Czech lighting designer, created the innovative adjustable lamp and the functional Bachelor’s Wardrobe, emphasizing modernist simplicity and practicality for small spaces.Read More →
Ladislav Sutnar, a significant designer known for information design, revolutionized Czech publications and pursued effective design in the USA, impacting exhibitions and products.Read More →
Jacqueline Groag, a Czech designer, fled to Britain with her husband in 1939, becoming renowned for her vibrant textile designs and influential post-war patterns.Read More →
Marie Hoppe-Teinitzerová was a notable Czechoslovak textile designer who contributed significantly to textile art, recognized for her innovative work and awards in the 20th century.Read More →
the beginning of the 20th century. Czech Cubism embraced architecture, design and decorative arts and flourished most prolifically in the years immediately preceding and following the outbreak of the First World War.Read More →
Vlastislav Hofman (1884 – 1964) was a Czech architect, designer and artist. He studied at the Czech Technical University. He worked in the building department of the Prague magistrate. He was a member of the Artel Cooperative and Mánes Association of Plastic Artists. In 1911 he left Mánes and joined the group of plastic artists. He wrote a number of theoretical articles for magazines. In 1912, he left the group and returned to Mánes. Read More →
Between the wars, Teige was a prominent figure in Czech art and architecture. He was the editor of many avant-garde magazines, including Disk, Stavba, and ReD, and wrote about photography. Read More →