The differences between Modernism and Post Modernism are vast; in fact Post Modernism was a direct reaction to the strict rules set by early modernist. In my essay I will discuss both movements and outline the main differences between both. Modernism was a cultural movement established in many areas like art, literature and architecture in the 20th century. The expression applies to a revolutionary group of designers who forged a new style, which was different from the previous Victorian Era. It is characterised in architecture with the use of minimal forms, absence of ornamentation and the use of new pure materials. Subsequently Post Modernism was a reaction to or rejection of modernism. The term was coined in 1949 with the dissatisfaction of modernism. Post modernist architecture is mostly recognised with the return of ornamentation, complexity of design and the combining of various historical styles. Modernism was a new architectural style that materialized in the decades after the First World War. Modernism was influenced by the Enlightenment and a social and political revolution; it was driven by the accessibility of new building technologies such as iron, concrete and glass, and progress in technologies and engineering. A reaction to the extravagant style of the Victorian era was also a contributing factor to modernism. Modernism is characterised by the removal of ornamental details, an emphasis on function and a simplification of form. It was established with the realistic use of modern materials, such as metal glass and concrete, and a rebellion against traditional or historical styles, while still using factory made parts. It was coined as the International Style in 1932 at the MOMA Exhibition. This International Exhibition of Modern Architecture identified the common trends in this approach to architecture and consolidating them together as one common “style”.
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