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Art Book Reviews

The collections at Loggia explore select areas of study in art and art history, architecture and design, the decorative arts, industrial design, and classical studies such as Greek, Roman, and Celtic mythology.

Gardner's Art Through the Ages

This book is the classic reference for the study of art. It features a history of artists and their works, as well as lucid and engaging descriptions of the styles and periods of art history. Highly recommended for both students and scholars.

 

 

home | art | articles | Deconstructing Art Deco

Deconstructing Art Deco

Art Deco is one of the most striking and memorable Twentieth century styles. With its bold emphasis on luxurious materials and elegant craftsmanship, the Art Deco style transformed the appearance of the decorative arts for a brief but glorious moment in the history of design. So let us explore some of the ways in which Art Deco objets d'art still dazzle spectators today, and learn why collectors and connoisseurs alike continue to admire this sophisticated style.

The origins of Art Deco began prior World War I. During this time, innovative designers were already beginning to reject what they considered the florid excesses of the Art Nouveau style, while simultaneously searching for fresh new perspectives in contemporary design. Instead of resurrecting and deliberately copying yet another historical style - an approach that had been popular during the Victorian era, and which resulted in a series of revivals of such styles and periods as Neoclassical, Rococo, Renaissance, and Gothic - designers looked to their contemporaries for inspiration. And these designers found a great deal to admire in the fine arts and music. Designers took an eclectic approach, infusing their works with the spirit of jazz and the style of Cubist paintings, for example. And the results were spectacular!

Artists who worked in a myriad of media eagerly adopted this new style. Posters, jewelry, furniture, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, metalwork, and even fashion were all created in a celebration of the Art Deco style. These works of art tended to share certain similarities, which were expressions of an Art Deco aesthetic. However, it is important to note that the style did not have a commonly accepted name or title until the year 1925. This was the year an international exhibition was held to showcase works done in the modern style. Titled L'Exposition Internationale des Arts D�coratifs et Industriels Modernes, this event marked the official grand entrance of what was then dubbed Art Deco in honor of the exhibit.

Page 2 - Famous Art Deco Designers


Art Deco Style

Art Deco Style is a beautifully designed book that reveals the importance of Art Deco. And the magnificent images of Art Deco inspired works of art that appear in the book demonstrate the vitality of this opulent modern style.