Protomodernism

Protomoderism was an experimental art movement that would contain the foundations of modernism. This art movement also contained the rejection of historical styles and the rejection of ornamentation which are decorative patterns that would typically be found on pillars or arches as well as embroidery or painted designs on different ceramics. This art style would be very influential in Germany and Austria and his movement gave way to the Vienna secession, a time when artists would protest against historicism but not quite embrace Art Nouveau. The secession inspired different architects such as Olbrich, Klimt, Wagner, etc. 


 

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One of these artists was Gustav Klimt. He was a major painter of the twentieth century and the biggest member of the Vienna secession. He embraced the unity between art and design and was even influenced by Sigmund Freud because his primary work focused on the subconscious and different themes of sexuality. He was most known for his paintings and was inspired by Japanese design. His style was highly decorative and distinct because of the use of the gold leaf. 

 

One of these works is the Tree of Life. This painting is an interesting artwork because of the many interpretations that people see. Some think it represents wisdom, strength, or beauty while others view it religiously with genesis and the creation where the tree of life symbolizes the Garden of Eden. Some even think it represents immortality and rebirth as trees lose their leaves and then gain them in the spring. This painting is a good example of dipping into the subconscious because we all see the painting in a different light depending on our perspectives and experiences.

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One Step Further: Adolf Loos

 

Loos was an Austrian architect who preferred practical building designs. He favored rich colorful materials such as red coral wood, translucent yellow panels, and even leather. He was influenced by the arts and crafts movement and for him the function of the interior was superior and the style should be discreet. Loos also liked to make more organized designs as he made homes that hosted straighter lines, clear walls and windows, and clean curves. He was also one of the first modern architects to use mirrors to enhance and expand interior places.

 

He designed many houses such as the Steiner House, Rufer House, the Khuner Villa, and more. Loos grew on his theories in his 1910 essay called Architecture. He claimed that architecture became a graphic art that a well-made building can't be thoroughly represented on paper and that plans do not appreciate the complexity of bare stone. He believes that architecture apart from monuments should not be included in the realm of art. Loos believed that the beauty of ornamentation and architecture is rooted in nature.    








Sources: Adolf Loos, Belle Epoque Architect and Rebel (thoughtco.com)

               A305/12: Adolf Loos (youtube.com)

Comments

  1. Marisa VanWyheFebruary 21, 2024 at 11:27 AM

    I liked your one step further on Adolf Loos! It's interesting to see how he used color and textiles in modern architecture because it is known to lack these things. It's also interesting to hear his take on art and architecture. It is definitely a different viewpoint form many other designers.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Delia T.February 23, 2024 at 12:07 PM

    Jacob, I liked your summary. I thought it was interesting that you focused on Klimt and then expanded on one his pieces of artwork, and how "The Tree of Life" is in many ways an experiment of the subconscious. I also found your one step further on Loos to be well-done, and it's interesting that he was one of the first modern architects to strategically utilize mirrors.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Professor VanderNoordaaFebruary 29, 2024 at 10:52 AM

    Jacob,
    Your Blog entry was very interesting. You summarized the movement and the influence of architects and artists during this time. I enjoyed your summary of Gustav Klimt and the "Tree of Life". His art was very inspirational during this time.
    Total Points: 50/50

    ReplyDelete

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