In 2008, my sister presented her dissertation on fascist architecture at UIC, aligning closely with your observations. Before WWI, a sense of innocence and abundance enabled architects and artists to imagine fantastical creations that inspired wonder and transported people to utopian or dreamlike ideals. However, global wars and conflicts shifted perspectives to scarcity, prioritizing efficiency and practicality. Ornamentation and craftsmanship, once hallmarks of excellence, became costly luxuries in an era of industrial mass production. Like socialism, the intent to make beauty accessible is noble, but it often sacrifices the depth and meaning found in true excellence.
I think we're on the verge of entering a post-postmodern era where audiences are seeking authenticity and deeper connections through art, film, and design. The shift suggests a move away from formulaic creations or overt political messaging toward works that prioritize human experience and emotional resonance. People are longing for narratives and aesthetics that explore universal themes, evoke genuine feelings, and celebrate creativity for its ability to unite rather than divide. This could herald a renaissance of storytelling and craftsmanship that centers on shared humanity, if only we can break through the scarcity mindset trap.
I wrote something of that nature in my latest post to inspire hope.
Thank you for reading and sharing these fascinating ideas Emma!! I love your reasoning, it makes a lot of sense. I've also felt that we're so overdue for a kind of renaissance, and your description of it likely needing to be one that prioritizes "human experience and emotional resonance" is right on point.
Great points Noah! I especially agree about the impact of rampant subjectivism on art, where anything is art if you deem it such. I've personally witnessed how this has continually devolved from its earlier form in Duchamp's work to now, when some artists literally have passed shit off as art!
A world of Convenience and Economics are really at play all around us. Practicing Mindfullness is what works for me. Great read.
Always a good solution 👌 Glad you enjoyed it!
In 2008, my sister presented her dissertation on fascist architecture at UIC, aligning closely with your observations. Before WWI, a sense of innocence and abundance enabled architects and artists to imagine fantastical creations that inspired wonder and transported people to utopian or dreamlike ideals. However, global wars and conflicts shifted perspectives to scarcity, prioritizing efficiency and practicality. Ornamentation and craftsmanship, once hallmarks of excellence, became costly luxuries in an era of industrial mass production. Like socialism, the intent to make beauty accessible is noble, but it often sacrifices the depth and meaning found in true excellence.
I think we're on the verge of entering a post-postmodern era where audiences are seeking authenticity and deeper connections through art, film, and design. The shift suggests a move away from formulaic creations or overt political messaging toward works that prioritize human experience and emotional resonance. People are longing for narratives and aesthetics that explore universal themes, evoke genuine feelings, and celebrate creativity for its ability to unite rather than divide. This could herald a renaissance of storytelling and craftsmanship that centers on shared humanity, if only we can break through the scarcity mindset trap.
I wrote something of that nature in my latest post to inspire hope.
https://open.substack.com/pub/emmakearney/p/my-prediction-for-the-post-trump?r=9ocx5&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Thank you for reading and sharing these fascinating ideas Emma!! I love your reasoning, it makes a lot of sense. I've also felt that we're so overdue for a kind of renaissance, and your description of it likely needing to be one that prioritizes "human experience and emotional resonance" is right on point.
Excited to check out what you wrote on this!
Great points Noah! I especially agree about the impact of rampant subjectivism on art, where anything is art if you deem it such. I've personally witnessed how this has continually devolved from its earlier form in Duchamp's work to now, when some artists literally have passed shit off as art!
You’re very welcome Noah, thank you for reading