Constructivism and Modern Architecture

Constructivism

When the Movement Began and Ended

Constructivism began in 1915 and ended in the late 1950's.  

Importance

Constructivits focused on construction rather than composition.  They did not care about creating objects to show beauty or to tell an artists statement about their outlook on the world.  Instead, they created designs in order for the outcome to result in a functional object.  Constructivists believed that their art should expose the "truth" of the materials capabilities.  The art would demonstrate how certain materials behaved and how an object would take on a form to perform a function.  The goal of constructivism was to take the designs and create objects which could be mass produced.  They wanted to connect with society to find solutions to modern-day problems. 

Vladimir Tatlin

Vladimir Tatlin is most famous for his contributions to the Constructivist movement.  He tried to incorporate functional uses throughout his art work.  His art marks the transformation of Russian art with a modern design, to art with practical designs.  Tatlin believed that when designing an object or art piece, the materials being used should be explored in order to learn about new functions that they may have, that could be put to use.  The lessons that he learned from the art studio, he brought with him into the real world.  This would explain why his work does not focus on the appearance of the materials, but rather the technology behind the materials.  

Monument to the Third International  (Tatlin's Tower)

(1919-1920) - Vladimir Tatlin 

This piece was created using steel frames and stands 1, 300 feet tall.  It was the tallest structure in the world at the time, as its function was to act as a conference space for the Communist Third International.  There were to be three glass units within the structure providing a space where meetings would be held.  The use of geometric shapes and glass showed modern construction and also added to the technology of the sculpture as it now had a purpose and function.  

Styles and Techniques

After WWI and the October Revolution of 1917, Constructivism started to gain popularity.  The art focused on expanding the uses of objects and materials and also maximizing space.  Many constructivists during this time created projects that were used throughout architecture, interior design, fashion design, typography and graphics.  Artists started to move away from art that consisted only of paintings, and started to create more three dimensional pieces.  

"Representation is finished, it's time to construct." - (theartstory.org)

Questions:

What was Vladimir Tatlin's most famous piece?

What did Constructivists focus on when creating an artwork?

a) Composition
b) Construction

c) Materials used
d) B and C

http://www.theartstory.org/artist-tatlin-vladimir.htm

http://cargocollective.com/constructivism/Influential-Artist

http://www.theartstory.org/movement-constructivism.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vladimir_Tatlin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQURCU6jN58

Modern Architecture

What is Modern Architecture?

Modern architecture is a form of architecture that breaks away from everyday traditional designs and aesthetics.  It continuously tries to to create homes and buildings that go above and beyond the basic ideas of design but rather they create structures inspired by layout, location, and function.   Modern Architecture finds its inspiration from the projects that they are creating itself such that if the project is meant to show something or be occupied by a certain person. This type of design is meant to design for each specific and unique situation and the inspiration is the purpose. The major important aspect that comes with modern architecture and design is that form follows function, meaning that the structure itself is meant to not only look good but it must serve a purpose. Modern architecture is also used to describe overarching movement with exact definition and irregular shapes. This is a concept that was predominant at the turn of the 20th century. This is a very popular style as it is becoming more and more predominant in the buildings we see today. Modern architecture uses very simple yet effective designs that is very free and clear of unnecessary clutter.

The History of Modern Architecture...

Modern Architecture is a term used to describe the large movement that is vastly popular. This term describes the modernest movement that occurred at the turn of the 20th century. This movement is able to combine the traditional architectural principles with the new technology advancements that we have in today's society. The term modern architecture is used to  differentiate from classical architecture and contemporary architecture. 

Main Concepts...

Modern architecture is generally free of clutter and unnecessary elements.  The project goals are decided and organized at the beginning of the process and only the key features are included in the drawing.  Residential homes are often dissected to show off the architectural design of the actual home itself while the focus will be on the space rather than any decor or un relevant details.  Modern tastes extremely enjoy simplicity and clarity.  Homes are typically clean, functional, and simple.  Choosing your own design elements in the way of colours, textures, and interesting furnishings will help create a more unique Modern style therefore following the modernist movement.

Modern architects love lines and incorporate them in any way possible. In Modern designs, you will find strong linear elements and bold horizontal and vertical features.  Beams, posts, cutouts, windows, staircases, fireplaces, roof lines, and other structural elements all help the architect when creating a space. This focus is more prominent in Modern design and is less important in other, more traditional, building styles. Lines of Modern architecture tend to be straight and angled rather than curved, however that is not always the case. 

Famous Architects and Designers... 

Some famous modern architects include Frank Lloyd Wright’s and his mentor, Louis Sullivan who famously stated that, “Form follows function”.  This idea is expressed by Modernisms’ tendency to have land or the function of a project dictate much of the design ideas.  For example, Wright was famous for building with the land meaning that his residential homes almost always relied on the lot to determine how the building was to be laid out.  Wright believed that a building should be “one with the land” and not simply just being built upon it. Other designers include our own Frank Gehry who helped to create the addition and the spiral staircase in the Art Gallery of Ontario. 

WATCH THIS!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjgC3l6JRaw

Questions to Consider

1. What is the famous statement that Louis Sullivan said that in which describes the whole of modern architecture?
2. What is one of the key characteristics of modern architecture?

a) curved lines
b )straight linear lines
c) circular lines 

Works Cited

Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, n.d. Web. 15 Feb. 2016.

"MODERN ARCHITECTURE DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS." Modern Architecture Defining Characteristics. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Feb. 2016.
http://deasypenner.com/tag/walt-disney-concert-hall/ (picture 1)
https://www.studyblue.com/notes/note/n/arc-542-study-guide-2012-13-meadows/deck/9723876 (picture 2)