Discourse – Rodchenko and Popova Defining Constructivism

Above left – Aleksandr Rodchenko: advertising poster for Red October cookies 1923; Right – design for cup and saucer, 1922 – my favourite design in the exhibition.

Rodchenko and Popova were key figures in the movement Constructivism, which occured during the time of the Russian Revolution. Constructivism sought to bring about positive change in a new society, incorporating many different forms of the arts into everyday life. The movement finally brought recognition to Female artists, for the first time their work held as much value as Mens.

Key elements in constructivist designs featured materials arranged scientifically, resulting in abstract geometric patterns, similar to Cubist principles. The main focus was on the formation of line. I liked the intentive use of cardboard and plywood in place of canvas in room three, and the wood shavings that were added into the paints surface to create texture.

The experimental contents of room four were particulary insipiring, displaying a collection of line drawings on paper; constructed with the use of a compass and ruler. Having a bit of an obsession with geometric perfection myself, I found it interesting that some of these perfectly measured linear angles were constructed on torn scraps of paper; it gave them a feel of not being too precious, whilst still remaining visually pleasing to the eye.

References

Tate exhibition booklet, Rodchenko & Popova Defining Constructivism.

Image taken from -

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/art/4928225/Rodchenko-and-Popova-at-Tate-Modern—review.html