Postmodernism and Postmodernity

Postmodernism and postmodernity is essentially the evolution of modernism and modernity. The process of creating not takes the concept of 'form follows function' to a whole new level, and allows for more creative control with it. Some would argue that designs of simple objects that derive from this are too focused on form rather than function.

For example, Philip Starke's Juicy Salif wouldn't actually function as well as any regular juicer, because the liquid from the fruit would drip down the legs of the juicer. It is an example of how far modernity can be pushed before being unnecessary and dysfunctional. With postmodernism, more risks have to be taken in order to look aesthetically modern, or even look ahead of its time, but still be functional. Although, you could argue that this works because it follows the all the requirements of postmodernism. It adds a sense of complexity to a simple product, a juicer; the design is unique but functions rather chaotically (or at least as chaotic as a juicer can get), it combines a sleek and glossy look with a sort of expressionist style; the end product is ironically dysfunctional, which could be seen as a parodic look at how postmodernism works.

Postmodernism works by breaking conventions to show meaning and get a reaction from spectators. Recently, in Leeds, someone had built a copy of her room and placed it in the middle of a shopping centre, as a way of parodying the trend of using social media to show your personal space to complete strangers. She made a replica of her bedroom based on the condition it was in on her photographs that were posted online, to prove a point as to how we exploit social media, saying that we might as well just remove our bedroom and physically show it strangers.