Roots of Modernism

'The idea of a better world through historical progress'


Signs of Modernism could be seen at the beginning of the 20th century in Art, Design and Philosophy then later on in the rest of the Creative Arts including: Architecture, Literature and Music.



Deutscher Werkbund - 1907


Meaning The German Work Federation, was a German group of artists, architects and designers. This group went on to influence and have a great impact on the Bauhaus movement.


Deutscher Werkbund allowed the Germans to compete and set up rivalry against England and the United States who at the time were the 'top dogs'. Their motto is: Vom Sofakissen zum Städtebau (from sofa cushions to city-building) to clearly show their range of interests.


The first signs of Corporate Identity were also seen around this time. In 1914 this Cigar box was designed by Fritz Hellmut Ehmcke.