Memphis Group Work Comparison

Ettore Sottsass Pieces

This piece is titled 'Carlton' and was made by the group Memphis, however the main artist behind the piece is Ettore Sottsass. Within this piece various bright colours have been used. This was contrasting to the mainstream as oranges and browns were in. As Memphis were creating pieces to break the 'norm'. Colours such as yellows and grey have been dulled down to more of a pastel colour. This compliments the piece as these colours would have been overpowering compared to the rest. In addition contrasting colours such as blues and reds have been used next to each other. This creates a high contrast between the two as primary colours are not usually used together. This works well within this piece as the variety of colour compliments each other due to the nature of the piece. Moreover angles are a common theme within this piece and multiple others. Sharp clean edges are used throughout this piece making it eye catching and bold. By doing this the Memphis Group have ignored the slick smooth look of the time, making it stand out further. Also this piece defies the idea of 'functionality' at the time. This idea was repeatably used making pieces boring and bland. However Memphis defied this by making pieces that were poking fun at these regular everyday objects. In addition they made items that were classed as art and were more decorative than functional. This was iconic of them as they wanted to drive away form the mainstream market. Carlton was classed as a 'room divider'. This was due to the sheer scale of the piece. As well as it being a divider, it provide a lot of storage space as well. Draws can be seen in the image as well as the multiple shelving areas. People such as Karl Lagerfeld kept various items such as books on this instillation. Compared to Ettore Sottsass' other pieces, this one lacks in patterns. Other than the base of the piece, it has little pattern within it. Overall this piece gives off a childish remake of a simple bookcase."A bolt out of the blue, red and yellow." - Lester Dundes. This piece was made from medium density fibreboard (MFB) which was laminated in vibrant colours. This makes the piece sturdy and strong, able to complete its function. This piece as a whole gives off a childish, playful atmosphere which would brighten up the room. When placed alone and with other furniture, I believe that this piece is a statement that is bold and defining.    

This piece is titled 'Tahiti Table Lamp'. Within this piece fewer colours have been used than 'Carlton'. Colours such as pink, red, yellow, brown and grey have been used. This limited compared to Carlton which features over 10 colours. This is drastically different as less contrasting colours, such as primary colours, have been used together. In addition the colours haven't been dulled compared to Carlton, making it more vivid and bold. However this piece is still eye catching it lacks in scale. As its original function is a lamp, the scale is much smaller than a room divider. Even though this piece is smaller, it is still fascinating and shocking to many in the 1980's. Compared to Carlton, this piece feature less sharp edges/angles and more rounded areas and smoother transitions. This is more appealing to the eye as the softer edges are nicer to view. Moreover, within this piece there will be wires hidden by the various coloured plastics they used to make these pieces. This is shown either by the brown cylindrical shape or the main yellow structure of the piece. Either could hide wiring easily, making this piece more harmonious. In addition this piece would light up when provided with electricity. This differs from Carlton as it is a statement piece rather then a functional piece as this one is. Even with its transformed design, it still has a function. This is shown throughout many of Memphis' work. This was because, even though their work defied the idea of 'functionality', they're pieces still had the basic function of the object in mind. Memphis wasn't a group about making money but rather a group trying to reshape the definition of art and design at the time. They wanted to break out against the 'norm'. When viewing this piece further, I believe this piece resembles a 'Drinking Bird'. Due to its shape, the rounded head and a squared beak, it appears to have been inspired by this. Similarly, this piece also features the same pattern as Carlton does. This pattern was designed Ettore Sottsass and is titled 'Bacterio'. This is because it resembles bacteria up close on a microscope. Overall this piece is a childish take on a lamp. This childlike approach to architecture is a common theme throughout their pieces. This links the Memphis' catalog together and 'bullet proofs' their idea on removing the dull from the market at the time. "Today everything one does is consumed. It is dedicated to life, not to eternity." - Ettore Sottsass. This piece gives off a playful and abstract atmosphere as from a distance the function of it would be unknown. Compared to 'Carlton' I believe this piece would make a statement when in junction with other pieces from the Memphis Group Collection.  

Nathalie du Pasquier

This piece is titled 'Zaire' and was created by Nathalie du Pasquier. She has created series of patterns that feature throughout Memphis' designs. Within this piece, geometrical shapes have been used throughout. This was common throughout most of the designs and work. In addition angular shapes have been used in this piece rather than larger circles in other pieces. Also these shape are irregular and lively as each one is different. Moreover, a simple blue colour scheme has been used. These icy shades of blue make this pattern harmonious compared to its rigid featured shapes. By using various tones of blue the piece is calmer than others as there is only one colour used throughout. In addition, no outlines have been used in this piece. This was common in many designs and was seen throughout patterns used then and now in modern clothing. Compared to other designs this one is toned down is is more calming to perceive. However this piece still keeps it playful qualities that were common of the Memphis Group. "I draw shapes, I cut them out, I try them on different grounds, like a collage." - Nathalie du Pasquier. This piece gives off a moody sullen atmosphere. I believe this because of the dulled colours and limited range of them. Compared to the one below which is vibrant and striking, this one appears laid back and calm.    

This piece is titled 'Gabon'. Within this piece only geometrical shapes have been used. Each shape/line involves sharp edges and angular points. Compared to the first pattern, this piece involves only angular shapes where as the one above had some circles incorporated within the design. Another difference is that a multitude of colours have been used in this pattern. Rather than a controlled colour scheme, colours such as purples, oranges, reds have been used sporadically. This is different as it immediately show the playfulness of the Memphis Group. In addition this piece is lively to look at and achieves a cheerful feeling. This piece also features various repeating patterns such as stripes and 'zig-zags'. These make the piece more fascinating to look at and makes the piece even more child-like. This piece gives off a cheery, energetic atmosphere as the colours are vibrant and bold. I believe this because compared to the one above this one is defining and will catch the viewer's eye. Each of her patterns were printed onto fabric. She has an interest in textiles and has now got a collection with American Apparel which is on sale.  

Natalie Du Pasquier was inspired by many things including her parents, specially her mother who was an art historian. She had learned a classical way of looking at art. Whereas Bordeaux, the place she was born, did a lot of trade with Africa. This spurred her to travel to Africa with a group of friends after watching chips being unloaded with exotic goods for years. When in Africa she experiment with her first drawings and soon people began to say that they resembled African fabrics. She states that 'I was absorbing patterns the same way I was listening to music in the bars and on the radio'. - https://frieze.com/article/nathalie-du-pasquier-my-influences 

Quotes from:

https://www.tate.org.uk/art

https://www.brainyquote.com/

https://artsandculture.google.com/

Memphis Group

Memphis Group

The Memphis Group consisted of Italian designers and architects that created a series of influential furniture in the 1980's. The group's style comprised of bold defining colours, clashing colours, geometric shapes, angular lines etc... Their creative approach to design furniture at this time challenged the idea that products had to follow conventional shapes, colours, textures and patterns. At the time browns, oranges and simple layouts were common. This drab dark idea was boring many people in society who were yearning for something different. This was because, unlike the Pop Art and Op Art Movements, people had money in their pockets. As the economy had recovered from the war, people were able to spend money creating the cycle of prosperity. This boosted sales and kept prices low. The Group was founded in 1981 with Ettore Sottsass leading the group of young designers in their 20's. Ettore Sottsass himself was within his 60's giving him experience and wisdom as he lived through various movements. Whereas the younger designers, that were living in the same apartment block, were fresh modern and modern compared to Sottsass. This created a great balance between the new and the old. The name of the Group, "Memphis", came about when the group banded together in meetings listening to the song "Stuck Inside of Memphis with the Memphis Blues Again" by Bob Dylan. The word "Memphis" stuck resulting in name The Memphis Group. "An effervescent, seductive and undeniably sympathetic group, it appalled some and amused others but put everyone attending the fair in a state of high excitement." - New York Times. 

Memphis was a reaction against the polished, black humourless design that lingered at the time. It was a time of minimalism with products that lacked personality and individualism. In Contrast, Memphis offered bright, colourful, unsettling pieces. These vivid defining colours stood out against the the browns and blacks of European furniture. Today Memphis could look dated, however fashion is continually inspired by Memphis as it returns throughout the years to inspire new and existing artists. Tasteful isn't a word commonly used with this movement as peculiar and quirky are more frequently used. However quirky designs and ideas are common today but at the time the Group were groundbreaking at the time. People ridiculed their work as it was previously unseen and a step into the unknown. Objects at the time were made to be functional and not be decorative. Memphis changed this with their creative approach as they poked fun at everyday objects. "When I was young, all we ever heard about was functionalism, functionalism, functionalism. It’s not enough. Design should also be sensual and exciting." - Ettore Sottsass.

After the Group's first meeting, they decided to meet again on February 1981. By then each artist had gathered and drawn hundreds of designs inspire by the previous movements, Pop Art and Art Decor as well as styles such as 1950's Kitsch and futuristic designs. After sharing and creating their designs, they exhibited their work for the first time at the Arc '74 showroom in Milan. This show exhibited clocks, lights, furniture created by internationally famous artists. One of Memphis' most famous pieces is Carlton. This piece was created to be a divider within a room. It has multiple functions such as shelving, storage, decorative etc... Famous people such as Karl Lagerfeld, the creative director of Chanel, has multiple pieces of Memphis' collection. "It was the weirdest feeling, you were in one sense repulsed by the objects, or I was, but also immediately freed by the sort of total rule-breaking." - Jasper Morrison. 

Many people called Memphis a 'fad' and said that it wouldn't last. This was true as the group disbanded in 1987, but it officially ended in 1988. The group only spent six years together before they split up to go their separate ways. However recently, Nathalie Du Pasquier has collaborated with American Apparel to design items of clothing that represent and show patterns based on the Memphis Group. "I draw shapes, I cut them out, I try them on different grounds, like a collage." - Nathalie du Pasquier.  

Overall, I think the Memphis Group are inspiring ass they wanted to create a new idea on what could be classed as 'art'. As well as defying the popular designs at the time and mocking everyday items. Compared to the other movements, I believe this movement will be fun to explore ideas, patterns and shapes when experimenting. Also I will be able to be more abstract with my ideas and involve bright eye catching colours compared to the muted tones of the previous movements. 

Quotes from:
https://www.tate.org.uk/art
https://www.brainyquote.com/
https://artsandculture.google.com/

Final Shoot

Final Images

These were my most successful images from our final photo shoot of the movement 'Op Art'. To create these images, we had to set up the studio to allow us to have enough room to project our designs. We used a white backdrop and a projector to create these effects. By using the white background we were able to easily edit the images later and it directly link the characteristics of Op Art. Moreover we used acetate with our designs printed onto them. This allowed us to project our designs onto objects or in our case, people. We decided to strictly use people as it would give a modern twist on it as within the Op Art movement it was common for the artwork to be based on canvas. This was due to it being painted. By using people we are adding modern society by using the people living within it. In addition, within today's society Op Art is used in multiple aspects such as advertising, film posters, singers etc... Pop stars such as Lady Gaga have used Op Art within her music videos such as 'Telephone'. Also she has worn a Op Art inspired dress which has influenced other artists such as Eureka from 'Ru Paul's Drag Race'. Because we were using a projector, we had to keep the room dark. This was due to the project having its own light. This made the designs defined and sharp. Overall our images were inspired by Bridget Riley. We were inspired by her artwork as it clearly relates to the movement. Moreover, she used bold defining lines to create her illusions. As these characteristics were common throughout her pieces, we wanted to capture this within our images. When reviewing these final images, I believe we did. 

    

Compared to our inspirational images, our final photos do vary quite a bit. Firstly we adapted for a modern audience by using a person instead of a canvas. By making the model our canvas we are able to manipulate the illusions and the effects it has when projected onto the body. In addition, this is modern as the process to get to this point was achieved by using technology. We created our designs via Photoshop and were able to capture our outcomes via a camera. When shooting these images we wanted to give each piece a different atmosphere by enabling the model to pose differently. This was beneficial as when selecting our final images we could compare and contrast which images we would like to display. Moreover we found it easy to change the mood within each piece by positioning the illusion over key areas of the body. This defined areas like the eyes and made them the focal point of the images. By doing this as well, it eliminated other areas of the body which could evoke emotions depending on the positioning, expression or shape. We found this beneficial as we were able to make a happy image sombre by covering the mouth, this made each piece easily manipulable. When shooting we found that bare skin worked best. However when placed within a college setting, this became difficult. Therefore when it came to the final shoot, the model/s wore items of clothing that could be pulled down and held to show enough skin to capture an image. 

Throughout this project I was inspired by Bridget Riley. Various of her pieces inspired me to achieve my final outcome. This piece titled 'Inspired Woman' influenced me the most. Within this piece I liked the idea of the woman being apart of the illusion. Therefore when capturing and editing my images I wanted the model to be lost within the illusion but still be seen. Also the way the lines curve and morph into a woman are repeated within my photos. As the photo was edited, the defined outline of the model began to become fainter, leaving the lines of the illusion to morph around her. This reflects this piece as the lines are drawn to embody a woman. 

I believe our image relate to our research and Pinterest boards as they include the key characteristics of Op Art. For example: mono-tonal, bold lines varying in thickness etc... Audiences will be able to recognise our work as it clearly shows characteristics of what makes up Op Art. Moreover, as Op Art is well know within modern society people will be aware that this type of art is common throughout the market, advertising and celebrity world. 

When viewing these three images, I believe it is hard to pick one successful image. I think this because each one shows and highlights defining areas of Op Art whilst adding a contemporary twist. Based on mood/atmosphere alone I would say the first image is the best one. I think this as with the others, the model is lost within the illusion. Even though this a good aspect of the images, I believe that the first image is fascinating to look at as you can clearly see the model as well as their shadow. In addition it creates multiple questions that remain unanswered. With the other images, it appears that the illusion is painted onto the model. This is an intriguing effect. Moreover, the second image is quite abstract as the acetate didn't cover the whole of the model. However the shadow compensated for this adding o the geometric style of the image.  

If I were to do this shoot again I would try to use objects within my images. Also I could experiment with colour objects as this would create another focal point and make the images more interesting. Moreover, I could experiment on different body types as the body had an effect on how the illusion became distorted.

Test Shoot

Test Shoot and Pinterest Board

Before doing the practise shoots, I created a board that helped me inspired my test shoot. By pinning photographs of projections used on people and objects, I decided that I preferred the projections on people rather than objects. I liked how the natural shapes and curves of the body/face warped the illusions projected onto them. This inspired me to experiment with different poses, illusions and colours.

When shooting, our group found out that colours did not work as expected. As we projected colour on some of our illusions, the colour overdid the black lines and became a solid colour. Even though these lines were visible to the model and photographer, they can barely be seen on the photo. However we can use these acetates to overlap and create various geometric designs due to the block colour. Another problem we found was that when trying to make the illusion bigger, if you help the acetate closer to the light of the projector it made the illusion blurry. This could play into our advantage as it created new effects and could be overlapped multiple times or to add an overlay to an existing illusion. Also, the illusions that had a central point made areas of the image stand out depending on where the focal point was. If placed over the eye, it would define the eye. This played into our advantage as we were able to define and highlight features/areas of the models body the add to the illusion. Moreover when arranging the illusion on the projector we thought about how we could add to the effect. We would place the illusion so that features of the face such as an eye or mouth became defined. This made the features 'pop' as they appear to be edited on, adding to the effect of the illusion.  

Test Shoots

Test Shots And Pinterest Board

Before doing the practise shoots, I created a board that helped me inspired my test shoot. By pinning photographs of projections used on people and objects, I decided that I preferred the projections on people rather than objects. I liked how the natural shapes and curves of the body/face warped the illusions projected onto them. This inspired me to experiment with different poses, illusions and colours.

When shooting, our group found out that colours did not work as expected. As we projected colour on some of our illusions, the colour overdid the black lines and became a solid colour. Even though these lines were visible to the model and photographer, they can barely be seen on the photo. However we can use these acetates to overlap and create various geometric designs due to the block colour. Another problem we found was that when trying to make the illusion bigger, if you help the acetate closer to the light of the projector it made the illusion blurry. This could play into our advantage as it created new effects and could be overlapped multiple times or to add an overlay to an existing illusion. Also, the illusions that had a central point made areas of the image stand out depending on where the focal point was. If placed over the eye, it would define the eye. This played into our advantage as we were able to define and highlight features/areas of the models body the add to the illusion. Moreover when arranging the illusion on the projector we thought about how we could add to the effect. We would place the illusion so that features of the face such as an eye or mouth became defined. This made the features 'pop' as they appear to be edited on, adding to the effect of the illusion.