Neue Sachlichkeit – Design Term
The New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit), a movement in 1920s German art, was a reaction against expressionism. Coined by Gustav Hartlaub, it featured figurative, cynical art without pre-war idealism.Read More →
January 31, 2025
In the realm of applied and decorative arts, the concept of “Form Follows Function” is a fundamental guiding principle. This design philosophy, which emerged during the early 20th century, underscores the idea that the form or appearance of an object should inherently reflect its intended function. From the sleek lines of mid-century furniture to the intricate patterns of textiles, every artistic creation in this domain embodies this ideology. Delve into the historical perspective to explore how this mantra has evolved over time, shaping movements like Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and Modernism. Visualize the harmony between form and function through a vivid exploration of color palettes, textures, and aesthetics that have graced everything from chairs to ceramics. As we journey through the pages of Encyclopedia Design, let’s engage in thought-provoking discussions about how the interplay between form and function continues to inspire and elevate the world of applied and decorative arts, inviting you to appreciate the beauty of design that is both practical and visually captivating.
The New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit), a movement in 1920s German art, was a reaction against expressionism. Coined by Gustav Hartlaub, it featured figurative, cynical art without pre-war idealism.Read More →
She designed the Hallesche Form tea and coffee set for KPM in 1930, which was a huge commercial success, especially with Trude Petri’s gold rings (1931) decor.Read More →
Architecture the 1920s & 1930s – the birth of Modernism. The architects of the post-World War 1 years aimed for simplicity above all else.Read More →
The impactful Bauhaus movement provides valuable lessons for modern branding, integrating art and craft, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, geometry, and sustainability to enrich brand identity and user experiences.Read More →
David Adjaye’s seating for Knoll at The Met New York signifies a shift in cultural and design implications, blending contemporary design with social commentary.Read More →
The Bauhaus School revolutionized design, creating a lasting influence with its philosophy that “form follows function”. Focused on simplicity, clarity and geometry, the school’s principles continue to shape modern poster design. Key contributors included Herbert Bayer, Joost Schmidt, and László Moholy-Nagy.
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