Total Work Of Green

Historically the term Gesamtkunstwerk was used to describe the total work of art that is expressed through different forms of art including graphic, sculpture, architecture, theatrical stage set-ups and etc. It was especially popular during the Art Nouveau period where artists and designers took inspirations from natural forms and concepts that came before its time.

In today’s society, art still serves as the reflection and expression of cultural changes and development. One of the major currents that is sweeping through every aspect of our lives now is the green movement.People are more environmental conscious nowadays. Being “green” and eco-friendly is not only a social movement; it has also become a cultural phenomenon as it has influenced many designers and their works. Therefore, such concept is not reflected in one single form of art but in all aspects of arts and design works.

This collage expresses the idea of Gesamtkunstwerk in reference to the green movement in our culture today. Essential elements that are designed under the influence of the idea were chosen to represent the historical concept as a whole. Examples include awareness posters, documentary movies, eco-friendly water bottle, shopping bags, hybrid cars, furniture made of recycled products, and clothes made of sustainable materials.

Historically expression of social changes and reforms through different forms of arts such as graphics, architectures, household products and etc. gave the name Gesamtkunstwerk to represent total work of art. Today technology has allowed art and design take on much broader forms that influence people’s everyday lives. Consequentially the concept of Total Work of Art becomes a viral effect that influences all forms of designed products that ordinary people may take for granted in everyday life. Yet it is inevitable that it has become more prominent than ever before.