Write a short essay to increase your ability to form connections between the art/design of the historic past, the present, and the future, expressing your own opinions and conclusions.
Assignment Brief (specifics):
- Research either social/moral concerns or the aesthetic concerns of contemporary design that were also reflected in historical art styles.
- Choose a current (within the past 25-30 years), specific example from your design discipline that expresses that concern (for example, the lobby of a hotel; a designer’s couture collection; a line of décor objects from one design firm).
- In your short essay, you will compare and contrast the concerns of the past with current trends and concerns as seen in your example.
o Tell the reader how that concern is still relevant today.
o Examine how the artist/designer of the 21st century interacts with history and what our responsibilities or debts are to the art/design of the past.
- DON’T WRITE A REVIEW ABOUT THE HISTORICAL STYLE/PERIOD.
If you do, you’ll get a failing mark.
- Your writing should be your opinions, conclusions, and/or reflections, expressed in your own words. You must defend your opinions and assertions with the current real-world example of design.
- There is no need to quote any other source.
Pick one of the following concerns: AESTHETIC or SOCIO-POLITICAL
- The Emotional (Romanticism): the beauty of the sublime; dramatic extremes of emotion
- The “Other” (Romanticism): the commodification of non-Western cultures
- The Beauty of Ugliness (Realism): grit and grime! Real life isn’t always pretty, and isn’t that gorgeous?
- The Authentic (Realism): no fantasy, only the real, experienced life
Connecting Past and Present: The Authentic in Contemporary Design
Throughout history art and design have served as reflections of societal values and concerns, capturing the essence of the human experience. One of the most poignant themes that has persisted through time is the pursuit of authenticity—a desire to present the real, unembellished aspects of life. This concern was deeply rooted in Realism, a 19th-century movement that sought to depict everyday life and experiences without romanticization or idealism. In contemporary design, this desire for authenticity is just as relevant, particularly seen in the work of designer Neri Oxman, whose projects blend technology, biology, and design to create objects that resonate with authentic human experiences.
Neri Oxman’s “Wanderers” project, which incorporates 3D printing and biological materials, serves as a contemporary embodiment of the authenticity sought by Realist artists. This collection of wearable structures is inspired by the natural world and human anatomy, reflecting a deep connection between technology and nature. Unlike traditional fashion that often emphasizes aesthetic appeal over functionality, Oxman’s work prioritizes an authentic interaction with the environment. The pieces are not merely decorative; they engage with concepts of sustainability, highlighting our responsibility toward nature and our own well-being.
The concern for authenticity in Oxman's work can be contrasted with historical approaches to design where beauty often overshadowed the gritty realities of life. During the Realist movement, artists like Gustave Courbet sought to portray the struggles and hardships of everyday people, pushing back against the idealized representations prevalent in Romanticism. This embrace of realism celebrated the mundane and often harsh realities of existence—a theme that resonates strongly in today’s design landscape as we face global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and the fast pace of technological advancement.
In examining how contemporary designers interact with historical themes, it becomes clear that our debts to the past are significant. Designers today must navigate a complex landscape shaped by historical context while also addressing modern concerns. The authenticity reflected in Oxman’s work compels us to confront uncomfortable truths about our relationship with nature and technology. By recognizing and honoring the lessons learned from Realism, contemporary designers can create works that evoke genuine emotional responses and provoke thoughtful discourse about our current circumstances.
The relevance of authenticity in design today extends beyond aesthetics; it demands that designers consider the socio-political implications of their work. In an age marked by consumerism and mass production, there is a growing demand for products that tell a story—products that resonate with individual experiences rather than conforming to generic ideals. This desire for authenticity aligns with a broader cultural shift toward mindfulness and sustainability, where consumers seek deeper connections with the objects they engage with.
The emotional weight carried by Oxman's designs underscores a critical responsibility that contemporary designers hold: to foster connections between ourselves and the world around us. By embracing authenticity, designers can contribute to a discourse that values real experience over superficial beauty. This approach not only honors the artistic traditions of the past but also paves the way for a future where design serves as a catalyst for positive change—encouraging us to reflect on our own lives and our impact on society.
In conclusion, t
he pursuit of authenticity remains a vital concern in contemporary design, echoing the principles laid down by Realist artists. Neri Oxman’s “Wanderers” project exemplifies how modern designers can integrate historical concerns into their work while addressing pressing socio-political issues. As we move forward, it is essential for designers to recognize their role in shaping culture and society, embracing authenticity as a guiding principle that honors our past while inspiring a more genuine future.