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Exploring Brutalism: AI-Generated Imagery and Digital Art
Is it coming back?
What is Brutalism?
Brutalism is a style of architecture that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its use of raw concrete and block-like forms. The term “brutalism” comes from the French term “béton brut,” which means “raw concrete.”
The word “Brutalism” in relation to architecture was first coined by a Swedish architect, Hans Asplund, to describe a square brick home called the Villa Göth in 1949. Brutalism officially started around this time period and quickly spread.
Brutalist buildings are often massive and imposing, with a rugged and rough-hewn appearance. The style is sometimes criticized for its perceived ugliness and lack of warmth, but it has also been celebrated for its honesty, authenticity, and monumental character.
Some of the most famous examples of Brutalist architecture include the Barbican Estate in London, the National Theatre in London, and the Boston City Hall in the United States.
The style was particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s but has since fallen out of favor in many parts of the world.
In the 1980s, Brutalism fell out of favor.
Part of this was due to the cold and austere nature of the architecture, which was often associated with totalitarianism.
Another mark against Brutalism was that the raw concrete used in construction didn’t age well, often showing signs of water damage and decay that brought down the overall aesthetic.
Despite its controversial reputation, Brutalism continues to be a subject of fascination for many architects and enthusiasts.
Its bold and uncompromising aesthetic has influenced many contemporary designers, and there is a growing appreciation for its raw, honest, and unpretentious qualities.
To illustrate Brutalism I created…
Imaginary images = AI + my digital artwork.
