The Influence of The Bauhaus Approach on Industrial Ceramic Design

Abstract

The desire to move away from traditionalism caused by the intense discussions on art in the 19th and 20th centuries and to break traditional patterns that followed, initiated the search for new concepts, methods and techniques. In the Bauhaus School, the subjects of art and craft, form and meaning, aesthetics and function were reconsidered through different materials. Ceramics are also among the materials that gained a new meaning with Bauhaus. Before Bauhaus, ceramics, which were processed with detailed patterns and forms through handicraft and accepted as a traditional material, gained a modern and industrial identity in Bauhaus with standardized molds, forms suitable for function, far from processing and ornamentation. Bauhaus Ceramics Workshop has revealed approaches and methods that guide industrial ceramic design. The pots made by craftsmen have given way to minimal products designed with basic design principles and having a conceptual substructure. This innovation has formed the basis of the minimalism approach in today's industrial design. In line with the ideas and radical approach of the Bauhaus school, which started a new era for the field of design, this study aims to investigate the effects of the school on today's industrial ceramic product design, and many data found in the literature were used and content analysis was made on ceramic products made by Bauhaus artists. Bauhaus interpretations and reflections in industrial design were discussed. By presenting the Bauhaus references in ceramic product design, the study aims to contribute to the literature and offer a new perspective to researchers and designers in the field.