Art Deco

SS Normandie (ship, 1935) interior

OEC Diamond Art Deco

Art Deco is a style of visual arts, architecture, and design that first appeared in France just before World War I and began flourishing internationally in the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s before its popularity waned after World War II. It is characterized by bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and lavish ornamentation. Art Deco was a departure from the organic motifs favored by its predecessor, Art Nouveau; it embraced influences from many different styles of the early 20th century, including Constructivism, Cubism, Modernism, Bauhaus, and Futurism, and also drew inspiration from the design of modern machinery and the newly found societal emphasis on speed and technology.

History and Development

The term "Art Deco" was derived from the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris in 1925. This exhibition was meant to showcase new ideas in applied arts, making a break from traditional styles. Despite its name, the movement had already begun to develop by the time of the exhibition. Art Deco's influence spread across the globe, and it left a significant mark on most metropolitan cities, influencing the design of buildings, furniture, jewelry, fashion, cars, movie theatres, trains, ocean liners, and everyday objects such as radios and vacuum cleaners.

Characteristics

Art Deco is characterized by the use of materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, lacquer, inlaid wood, sharkskin (shagreen), and zebraskin. The patterns are typically geometric shapes like chevrons and ziggurats; they are often symmetrical and standardized. Sunburst motifs and stepped forms are also common. In architecture, Art Deco buildings often feature rectangular blocky forms arranged in a geometric fashion, decorative motifs, and bold outlines.

Influence and Legacy

The influence of Art Deco was widespread. In architecture, it was seen in the design of skyscrapers and public buildings, as well as in cinema houses and railway stations. Many cities around the world have districts with prominent Art Deco buildings, such as Miami Beach in the United States, which is known for its Art Deco Historic District. The style also had a significant impact on the design of consumer goods and fashion.

After World War II, the popularity of Art Deco declined as it was replaced by the Modernist movement. However, there was a resurgence of interest in Art Deco in the late 20th century, with renewed appreciation for its style and historical significance. Today, Art Deco remains an influential style in the design and architecture sectors.

Art Deco in Popular Culture

Art Deco has been depicted in numerous films and television shows, reflecting its association with luxury and modernity. The style's influence is also evident in video games and graphic novels, where it is often used to evoke a sense of the early 20th century's optimism and progress.

See Also

• Bauhaus
• Cubism
• Modernism

External Links

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