The definition of the word ‘authentic’ is to be “not false or copied; genuine; real”. The question is though, is it possible for art to be truly authentic?

In my personal opinion I feel that to create art or a piece of design, you have to be influenced by something or someone. In today’s ever evolving society, it’s impossible not to be constantly bombarded with art and design wherever you go. Even subconsciously we’re always absorbing this information.  However, there’s a big difference between being influenced by something and copying something. If you take your influences and create something that has never been done before, then in my opinion, that makes your work authentic.

A quote that reflects a similar opinion is:

“The new artist does not imitate, he creates. He does not describe, he designs.” (Theo van Doesburg, 1931).

Not only does this quote sum up the idea of authenticity, but also the principles of Modernism. To reject the styles of the past and experiment with new materials and ideas to create work that reflected a new, modern society.

I think these principles definitely still hold firmly in today’s contemporary practice. Artists and designers are always looking for new ideas and ways to create work. With so much going on in the world, designers are constantly changing their approach to reflect what is going on in society- just like the Modernist movement.

sources: Modernism, Designing A New World, Victoria & Albert Museum 2006