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Design styles often draw inspiration from their predecessors (previous movements) or react against them - NSC Design - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Design styles often draw inspiration from their predecessors (previous movements) or react against them. Select TWO movements from the list below and write TWO sepa... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Design styles often draw inspiration from their predecessors (previous movements) or react against them - NSC Design - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Discussing De Stijl
Answer
The De Stijl movement aimed to reduce designs to what they considered the essentials of art, which included straight vertical and horizontal lines, rectangles, and primary colors. This movement rejected the complexity of earlier styles, such as Art Nouveau, which emphasized ornate designs and natural forms.
The influence behind De Stijl stemmed from a desire for harmony, clarity, and purity in design. Iconic designers like Piet Mondrian and Gerrit Rietveld exemplified these ideals through their simplistic geometric forms and color palettes, focusing on balance and proportionality. Their work drastically contrasted with the elaborate, decorative aspects of the Arts and Crafts movement, showcasing how De Stijl distanced itself from the past.
An example of De Stijl's principles can be seen in Gerrit Rietveld's Schröder House (1924), which embodies the movement's characteristics by simplifying forms and creating a harmonious environment.
Step 2
Discussing Bauhaus
Answer
The Bauhaus movement emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the ornate styles that preceded it, emphasizing functional design and the unity of art and technology. It sought to demystify art, making it accessible and usable for the masses—an idea that split from the more elitist traditions of previous movements.
Bauhaus was significantly influenced by the principles of industrialization and the belief that design should accommodate production methods. Iconic figures such as Walter Gropius and Marcel Breuer played pivotal roles, producing works that married functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Bauhaus designs, like the Bauhaus chair, rejected decorative excess and instead focused on clean lines and efficient use of materials. This approach is a radical departure from earlier design philosophies, revealing how Bauhaus drew inspiration from modern technology while contrasting sharply with the romanticized styles of the past.