- Home
- Student Projects
- Reconstructed Modernism A Revision On Euro-american Design Ideologies
Reconstructed Modernism A Revision on Euro-American Design Ideologies
The following thesis, Reconstructive Modernism delves into the intricate relationship between the cultural whitewashing, and historical misrepresentation fabricated by the so-called “Western world”, alongside the popularity of Modernism in contemporary society. By shedding light on the improper representation and misunderstanding of classical antiquity, the thesis looks at how the misrepresentation of cultural productions of the past were manufactured to suit the ideological needs of the Euro-American Modern Movement.
Through a revisionist exploration, the project uncovers a troubling narrative in which the modern world is presented as inherently pure, perpetuating a deceptive perception of Classical Antiquity as a result. This misrepresentation has had profound social, aesthetical, and cultural implications, that have shaped core ideologies, deeply embedded in the world of design but just as well the contemporary narrative that shapes the present.
By employing speculative design practices alongside revisionist studies, the project aims to illuminate the long-lasting impact of these ideologically shaped narratives and, in the light of it, open new paths for contemporary design - through the design of a “book-object” for Reconstructed Modernism. The thesis seeks to deconstruct puristic narratives by revealing their foundations - built upon flawed assumptions of what can be understood as “Western values”. Furthermore, the research highlights the scarcity of discourse being translated and targeted within the realm of design, as well as solutions surrounding this topic - presenting an opportunity to contribute newer directions from a design perspective.
The thesis proposes a shift (not only when it comes to aesthetical choices, but regarding the mentality and can- on cemented by modernist values) as well as a reflection of contemporary design ideologies. The project itself, emphasises that there are ideological constructions that exist behind aesthetics, particularly longlasting in the case of Euro-American Modernism. By transcending existing limitations and opening avenues for reimagining the 21st century, the project navigates toward a new framework, informed by a critical understanding of historical narratives and a commitment to reflective creation. This project advocates for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to design, challenging fabricated biases of history.
By employing speculative design practices alongside revisionist studies, the project aims to illuminate the long-lasting impact of these ideologically shaped narratives and, in the light of it, open new paths for contemporary design - through the design of a “book-object” for Reconstructed Modernism. The thesis seeks to deconstruct puristic narratives by revealing their foundations - built upon flawed assumptions of what can be understood as “Western values”. Furthermore, the research highlights the scarcity of discourse being translated and targeted within the realm of design, as well as solutions surrounding this topic - presenting an opportunity to contribute newer directions from a design perspective.
The thesis proposes a shift (not only when it comes to aesthetical choices, but regarding the mentality and can- on cemented by modernist values) as well as a reflection of contemporary design ideologies. The project itself, emphasises that there are ideological constructions that exist behind aesthetics, particularly longlasting in the case of Euro-American Modernism. By transcending existing limitations and opening avenues for reimagining the 21st century, the project navigates toward a new framework, informed by a critical understanding of historical narratives and a commitment to reflective creation. This project advocates for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to design, challenging fabricated biases of history.
