Italian Futurism

As the history of art progressed into the 20th century more and more art groups and movements made names for themselves as they created. They produced manifestos and promoted their like-minded attitudes. Most of these groups were challenging art of the academy and historical art practices. Modern art was born; growing and changing rapidly. 

At the end of the first decade of the 20th century, a group of men saw the world-changing, industry, development, machines, and inventions. They saw a future that was exciting, new, full of speed and promise. The Futurists movement began in Italy and spread around the world. They enjoyed the automobile, trains, ideas of war, and nationalism. These men saw the rapid change occurring in the world around them and wanted to experience it and show it visually. In this short class, students will learn about this art movement and how it revolutionized art and art history prior to WWI. 
In this short class we will look at some of the most famous artworks from the Futurist movent and talk about why these works are so dynamic and revolutionary to the world. We'll see how futurism went on to influence future generations even though most of its artists died in WWI.  Students will practice looking and describing art, as they practice describing art, and seeing this new style.