Art Deco Design

Question 1

Influences

Answer 1

• popular painting movements at that time such as Cubism, Fauvism, Futurism and Abstract art
• Ancient civilisations such as ancient Egypt, Aztec Civilisations and African Art
• Russian ballet
• Aerodynamics and machines

Question 2

Aims

Answer 2

To mass produce luxury items
To celebrate carefree modern living, wealth and sophistication after WW2

Question 3

Characteristics

Answer 3

• decorated surfaces with energetic repetitive designs
• style of stepped forms, zig-zags, sunburst motifs and geometric shapes
• streamlined and aerodynamic
• use of exotic materials like ivory, sharkskin and tortoiseshell as well as “new” materials like stainless steel, aluminiun, chrome and bakelite
• subject matter of images of transport, animals, flowers, women and fashion
• combinations of bold colours such as red and black, white and black, chrome and gold, etc.

Question 4

Example of design and designer

Answer 4

The Chrysler building
Designed by William van Alen in 1930.
At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building. Art Deco characteristics can be seen in its pyramidal-like structure and the sunburst patterns used on its spire.