Modernism

“Modernism” is a loosely defined term referring to a wide range of artistic movements beginning in the late nineteenth century. Common to most of these movements was a rejection of historicism in favor of materials, forms, and techniques that seemed suited to an era of mass industrial production, rapid communication and travel, and political upheaval. The Wolfsonian’s collection contains many items associated with self-consciously Modernist movements, including Viennese Secession graphic design, Italian Futurist “air paintings,” Czech and Soviet Constructivist book covers, and Bauhaus furniture.