Protomodernism

Unlike previous design movements, such as Arts and Crafts or Art Nouveau, modernism does not seem to be created to blatantly go against the previous design style before its time. It seems to reject all design styles before it instead. It makes it especially interesting to learn about why these trends came about and what different motives prompted designers of this time to create the work that they did. In my Art Nouveau blog I discussed how applied arts became more important and respected in the academic world and it was during the period of protomoderism where the arts really came together. I believe that protomoderism was a time for artists to experiement with new ways of thinking. Because of this, 

Charles Mackintosh Designs

 

It was interesting to read about Charles Mackintosh because his works can be categorized under many design movements including Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Prairie Style. Not everything in history is "black and white" and it is important to learn about and study the overlap that can be found in the past. Mackintosh's work originally stood out to me after seeing his watercolor graphic design work for the Glasgow Institute. I really enjoy the color combination and elongated feel of the design. 

Above, I have included three different Makintosh designs. On the left is an image from Mackintosh's Hill House which located in Scotland. In the middle you can see a Mackintosh graphic design. Many of his designs resemble this one, including very delicate details and color soft color palette. On the left you can see a window detail on the Glascow School of Art building which Mackintosh designed. 

Current Applications

 

Above are examples of current applications of protomodernism design. The clean lines, small details, and use of white can be seen in both images and are characteristics of this design movement. 

Super Great Videos That You Should Watch

Charles Rennie Makintosh: Overview | https://youtu.be/LNrV6vbu4os
Modernism: Design in a Nutshell | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDCEtnXlA4Y

Peer Reviews 

Sara | Sara did a really good job of discussing two important figures in the protomodernism period. It was really interesting to be able to learn more about Wagner and Rietveld.
Erin Kelly | I liked the current application of a Frank Lloyd Wright design that Erin shared on her blog. It was easy to see that it was Wright inspired, without being too overwhelming.