Futurism

Futurism is an artistic and social movement that was created in Italy at the beginning of the 20th century, although it also existed in other countries. Artists belonging to the Futurist movement placed emphasis on aspects of modernity and industrialisation, such as speed, dynamism, technology, and subjects belonging to the modern era such as large cities, cars, airplanes. By capturing the energy of modernity, employing elements of neo-impressionism and cubism, the Futurists denounced Italy's cultural past. In his Manifesto of Futurism, Italian poet and leader of the movement Filippo Tommaso Marinetti claimed that “'we will free Italy from her innumerable museums which cover her like countless cemeteries''. 

The main artists associated with the Futurist movement include the Italian artists Giacomo Balla, Umberto Boccioni and Gino Severini. Futurism decreased in popularity as a movement after the horrific events of the First World War. This was a period during which many avant-garde movements from before the war were rejected, and art that returned to older, more traditional styles and techniques were re-popularized. 

A century after the creation of Futurism, the legacy of the movement is still apparent in the art of today. Many contemporary artists find inspiration in its depiction of dynamism, speed and modern life. Discover Artsper's selection of artists who were either part of or inspired by the iconic Futurist art movement, including Fortunato Depero and Caio Locke, today!

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