Concrete
Definition
This term refers to a composite material made from a mixture of cement, water, sand, and aggregates, used extensively in architecture and sculpture for its strength, durability, and ability to be molded into various shapes. Concrete is often associated with modernist and brutalist aesthetics, valued for its raw, industrial qualities.
History
Concrete became a prominent material in art and architecture during the 20th century, particularly within the modernist and brutalist movements. Architects like Le Corbusier and artists like Rachel Whiteread have used concrete to create works that emphasize form, texture, and the relationship between space and environment.
Notable Examples
Le Corbusier
Unité d'Habitation, 1947-1952
Rachel Whiteread
House, 1993
Le Corbusier
Unité d'Habitation, 1952
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Le Corbusier, whose Unité d'Habitation in Marseille is a seminal example of modernist architecture, using concrete to create functional, communal living spaces, and Rachel Whiteread, a contemporary artist known for her sculpture House, which cast the interior of a Victorian house in concrete, creating a powerful commentary on memory and absence.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve mixing and pouring concrete into molds to create sculptures, architectural elements, or entire buildings. Artists and architects may also use techniques like surface texturing, staining, or polishing to enhance the material's aesthetic qualities. The use of concrete in art often emphasizes its industrial origins and modernist aesthetics, making it a popular choice for both abstract and functional works. Concrete's versatility and durability allow for a wide range of creative possibilities, from large-scale public art to detailed, intricate forms.
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