 |
| Vacuum flask, designed for Bodum, designer unknown, AIBDC: 000746 |
Charles Jencks, who died in October, is remembered as the
writer who announced the death of Modernism and was the catalyst for Postmodernism. His book, The
Language of Post-Modern Architecture, was first published in 1977
and ran to seven editions. It identified and articulated the significance of
postmodernism before it had become a recognised style and thus he helped to
bring the movement into existence.
 |
Mary biscuit box, designed by Stefano Giovannoni for Alessi, AIBDC:
001227
|
Postmodernism was a repudiation of Modernism. Modernism was
characterised by a search for universal truths, embodied in art and
architecture by a rejection of traditional styles and a predilection for
abstraction. By contrast Postmodernism was characterised by a distrust of
theories, a self-conscious use of earlier styles, a penchant for contradictory
layers of meaning and a love of irreverent irony. It collapsed the distinction
between high and popular culture and challenged established definitions of ‘good’
art and design. As an architectural style, Postmodernism was relatively short
lived. However, its plural character is especially in tune with the infinite
transformation to which the plastics material group lends itself. Accordingly, it
has continued to exert influence on product design.
 |
| Diva watering can, designed by Eero Aarnio for Alessi, AIBDC: 006739 |
A small display has been curated in the cases outside MoDiP
on the 1st floor of the AUB library as a homage to Jencks. The
objects chosen have been designed by three different companies, all of whom
have embraced Postmodernism: the Italian company, Alessi; the Swiss company,
Bodum and the German company, Koziol. The exhibition will run until the end of
January 2020.
 |
Ahoi juicer, designed by Paolo Pedrizetti for Koziol, AIBDC:
002209
|
 |
| Eve fruit bowl, designed by Robin Platt for Koziol, AIBDC: 006731 |
Professor
Susan Lambert,
MoDiP
Chief Curator
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.