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Paul Klee is a talented artist who has contributed a lot to the world of art. He is also a natural draftsman who experimented with and mastered the color theory and wrote extensively about it. His lectures, Writings on Form and Design Theory, that is published in English as the Paul Klee Notebooks, are considered to be of utmost importance to modern art. Read on to learn more about the life and works of Paul Klee.

Biography

Paul Klee (1879-1940) was born in Switzerland and considered to be both a German and Swiss painter. His works were greatly influenced by different movements in art, including expressionism, cubism, and surrealism. He is a natural draftsman whose artworks have shown that he has mastered color theory. 

During his younger years, Paul Klee focused on becoming a musician, but later on decided to concentrate more on the visual arts. As a musician, he played mostly the traditional works of the 18th and 19th centuries. As a visual artist, he enjoyed practicing freedom to explore radical ideas and styles. 

During his school years, he is fond of drawing caricatures and already displaying and already displaying skill with line and volume. He also studied art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich wherein he excelled at drawing. After receiving his Fine Arts degree, he traveled to Italy along with his friend, Hermann Haller. While traveling, the two studied the master painters of the past centuries. 

For Paul Klee, color represented the optimism and nobility in art, and a hope for relief from the pessimistic nature he expressed in his black-and-white grotesques and satires. By 1905, he was developing some experimental techniques, including drawing with a needle on a blackened pane of glass resulting in 57 works including his Portrait of My Father (1906). He also completed a cycle of eleven zinc-plate etchings called Inventions. 

From 1931 to 1933, Klee taught at the Academy of Fine Arts in Dusseldorf. He went back to his hometown when the National Socialists declared his art “degenerate” in 1933. His later works reflected the turmoil in Europe in which they have a somber tone. Lines turned into black bars, forms became broad and generalized, scales are larger, and colors are simpler. 

Methods and Styles

Paul Klee was associated with Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Surrealism, and Abstraction. He usually worked alone to interpret new art trends in how own way. He developed new techniques as he worked in different media including oil paint, watercolor, ink, pastel, etching, and others. He often combined these mediums in one artwork. He also used canvas, burlap, muslin, linen, gauze, cardboard, metal foils, fabric, wallpaper, and newsprint. He also used spray paint, knife application, stamping, glazing, and impasto and mixed media such as oil with watercolor, watercolor with pen and India ink, and oil with tempera. 

With his mastery of color and toes, many of his works combine these skills. Most works have a fragile childlike quality to them and are usually on a small scale. It is also common to see geometric forms and grid format compositions along with letters, numbers, animals, and people. Some of his works are abstract that may reflect dry humor and varying moods, as well as political convictions. His works often allude to poetry, music, and dreams. His later works are distinguished by spidery hieroglyph-like symbols.  

The display of posters is one of the fun and exciting ways to express ourselves, add a personal style to our rooms, and bring to life any room in our homes. Gone are the days that we simply display the art or any photos on the walls. Sometimes we even use corkboards to pin these memorabilia. These days, the use of frames does not only protect your art, posters, or photos. They can also add beauty to the wall decor that will level up the overall appearance of your walls. 

Local framing store

The quickest and easiest way to frame a poster is to bring it to a local framing store. However, this may be a little expensive and greatly depends on the type and size of the frame. The only disadvantage is that these stores may have a limited selection of suitable frames to choose from. Some stores may also offer you frames that are of not good quality and may cause problems in the future. 

Frame it yourself

If you are worried that you may commit a mistake in framing your posters, there are different references on how to do it correctly. The internet is one of the best sources that we have these days and practically everything can be found on various websites. 

Choosing the right frame is quite a challenge at first. But come to think of it, there are simple ways to determine the most suitable frame for your needs. You need to consider two aspects of your poster. Is the poster black and white or colored? You also need to consider the dimension of the poster. If the poster is black and white, a neutral frame is highly recommended to highlight the image. If the poster is in vibrant colors, choose a frame with a color that is also featured in the poster. 

How to frame a poster

1. To use or not to use a mat. The mat can add beauty to your posters as it provides an extra border, providing a space between the poster and the frame. Mats can also adjust the size of the poster.
2. The right frame to use. There are different types of frames to use. The materials also vary from plastic to high-quality metal or wood. These frames can add beauty to your poster and likewise protect them especially those that are considered to be collector’s editions. 
3. Clean the glass or plexiglass.
4. Attach the poster to an adhesive foam board.
5. Slide the glass back into its place in the frame.
6. Fit the mat into the frame.
7. Gently slide the poster or foam board into the frame behind the mat.
8. If there is a need for a poster backing, then add it to the assembly. This protects the art against dust and dents. 
9. Attach the hanging mechanism. 

The perfect frame for your poster

Finding the right frame for your poster and framing it is not that difficult as many people think. Many shops sell posters in the form of a kit. There are instructions included to guide you in properly adding the frame. In Artdesign, we have simple yet appealing frames that will add beauty to any poster design that you choose. Choose the right frame and beautify your walls.

Do you think that the dining room is important? Of course, it is! These days, many designers combine the dining room with the kitchen. This is to save some space and use that space into something functional, like a playroom or a breakfast nook. Just like any other room, the dining room can be versatile. It can be used to entertain your guests, a workspace, or a study area. Whether you are decorating a traditional dining room or a modern one, you have a lot of options that will boost its appearance. Here we have some tips and ideas that will help you with your dining room decorating project.

Functional and appealing dining tables

Before buying a new dining table, it is smart to consider the size of the room first. In addition to this, you must choose the appearance that will best fit your style along with the budget that you have. Many small dining rooms have extendable tables that can be used on different occasions. Extendable tables are perfect for birthdays, parties, or game nights. 

The material that most people love is wood and this is what you really need. It gives a cozy and relaxing feel that seems a combination of traditional and modern. There are available tables that are made up of other materials like ceramic, plastic, and marble. They too are functional and attractive. 

Dining chairs

Choose dining chairs that are of high quality and comfortable. These chairs will not only add beauty to your dining room but will likewise be functional for every occasion. Select chairs that are made with wood, eco-leather, or metal as these are more durable over the years. 

However, if you already have chairs, might as well be practical and buy chair covers. These can make them more vibrant, comfortable, and attractive. You may also include bar stools in the dining room. 

Rugs

Stylish rugs will make the dining room look even more beautiful. Rugs are also used to make the dining room cleaner as well as to protect the floor from damages like scratches and spills. The addition of rugs is also an affordable way to cover old and worn-out flooring. 

Wall accessories and other decorative items

Add details to the dining room with wall accessories and other impressive decors. Add lights, mirrors, trendy posters, and wall art. These will make the room look more stylish and elegant. You can also style your walls with personalized posters to make them look more attractive and functional. These items can likewise brighten the dining room that is perfect for romantic dinners, parties, or family gatherings. Mirrors can reflect the natural light that will make the room warm and cozy. 

Final Thoughts

We hope that these tips will be able to help you in making your room look fantastic. The furniture pieces can give your room the boost it deserves. With the creation of wall art, the dining room will be the highlight of your room. The display of the dining room posters can also add a theme that will surely be adored by your guests. 

Bring the classic into your home with a traditional interior design style. A design style that many consider to be obsolete, but offers a natural beauty and comfort. This design style is influenced by the 18th and 19th century European decor. Traditional interior design style offers elegance and comfort that is perfect for all ages. These days, with the availability of different materials, the design style has become more versatile giving the chance for homeowners to personalize and customize their homes.

Characteristics of Traditional Interior Design

Here are some of the common features of the design style. These may be your guide in achieving it successfully and sometimes you need not break your bank account. With a little imagination and creativity, you will be able to have an inviting and comfortable home. 

Soft edges

The absence of sharp angles and edges is one of the trademarks of the traditional interior design. Focus more on curves such as the addition of skirts on furniture pieces. This evokes a cozy feeling in addition to hiding the legs of tables and chairs. 

Rich wood tones

Dark wood tones are another key feature of the design style. Use woods such as mahogany, cherry, or oak. 

Symmetry

Traditional interior design also focuses on balance in every part of the house. This means that from the architecture to the addition of furniture pieces. They are usually grouped together is a way that they appear formal and elegant.

Conservative colors

Colors to use are supposed to be laid back and subtle. Neutral colors are often used, examples are beige, cream, and tan. You may also opt to use shades of brown, red, green, and blue.

Interesting tips to achieve the design style

Here are some tips for your to create a traditional interior design style to your home:

Dark colors

The design style makes use of dark woods, refined colors, and rich tones. The walls are usually painted with neutral colors. Furniture pieces, artworks, and other decorative items should be in dark colors to contrast the colors of the wall. As such, the wall and the items will be highlighted. 

Elegant furniture pieces

Furniture pieces tend to be heavier and made from wood of mahogany, maple, or cherry. Choose high-quality fabric such as leather, silk, and velvet. 

Wood

The use of wood is one of the key elements of the traditional design style. Dark woods are used for the furniture pieces. The wood is carved and lacquered to have that elegant appeal.

Exotic rugs

Use Persian carpets and oriental rugs as these never go out of style and are popular in the traditional interior design. 

Glossy

Metals with soft, warm undertones are another feature. Add metals like brass, bronze, and copper.

Accessories

Add decorative items like china, figurines, indoor plants, books, and globe. 

Final thoughts

Traditional interior design style is not that hard to achieve. It offers an elegant appearance that is perfect for all ages. It also gives a comfortable feel especially with the natural materials used such as wood. 

Complex yet stylish interior design style. This is probably the best way to describe the interior design style of the 1980s. It is called modern retro as different elements from the past and present can be seen inside a home. With the addition of design elements and the use of your imagination, you will be able to create a home that is chic and timeless. 

The modern retro interior design style

The 1980s design style is not a plain and simple style. In fact, it consists of different elements that make it a little bit complex. It is common to see metallic accents, angles, and curves inside a home with the design style. What makes the style even more interesting is the fact that it can easily be incorporated into the designs we have today. The modern retro design style is mainly composed of bright colors, a flat design, and numerous geometric figures.

Characteristics of the modern retro interior design style

The design style has the appearance of what many say, “less is more”. It encompasses the minimalist approach that features clean-lined furniture pieces. The glossy and reflective appearance of the surface is achieved with the use of mirrors, chrome, and glass. These are remarkable items as they can make any room look visually larger. In addition to these, gray and white are common on the walls so that other colors can easily blend with them. 

A brief history of the 1980s modern retro design style

The 1980s is remembered for its socioeconomic change that is due to technological advancement. It is also a period of moving away from the planned economy and shifting towards laissez-faire capitalism. This boom in the global economy is greatly influenced by the United States. As such, there is an increase in job opportunities and economic expansion, especially in the West. 

Many companies likewise relocated to different countries, particularly to Asia. Examples are Thailand, Mexico, South Korea, China, and Japan. As a result, these countries experienced growth in employment and economy. The developing countries, on the other hand, are experiencing financial crises and an increase of debt from the International Bank and the World Bank are observed. 

The AIDS epidemic was recognized during the decade as well as global warming started to become a problem. 

Popular modern retro design style ideas

Here are some inspirations that you may want for your home:

Pastel colors

Soft pastels were common during the 80s. With the application of white in generous amounts, the soft pastel colors will be intensified. 

Country style

This refers to the aesthetics that represent the rural farmhouse-like design. The design style gained its fame because of its simplicity. Pastel and bright colors blend perfectly with the country design style. It is also common to see natural elements such as wood, rocks, and others. 

Open kitchen

The open kitchen aims to avoid the isolation of the person who is in the room. It also provides a continuous flow between rooms. 

Shabby chic design

White and antique in appearance coupled with sofas covered with quilted comforters and simple grommets. 

Zen-inspired design style

This design style is known for its simplicity and spiritual appearance with the use of elements such as pebbles arranged neatly in certain areas. 

The modern design style is the trend these days when it comes to styling your home. In fact, many public spaces and establishments prefer the design style over the others. It features clean lines and simplicity which are greatly influenced by the modern art movement of home interior. Moreover, there are no limitations to modern design style. It encompasses a lot of different embodiments.

The characteristics of modern design style

Modern design style has its strong influences from the modern art movement. In the field of art, modernism began with impressionists and abstraction. Art Deco also has strong influences on the design style and it gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. This is why the design style is often called mid century design. 

Shapes as a key element of modern design style

Shapes are one of the key elements in modern design style. It uses geometric shapes such as rigid squares and rectangles with smooth curves. In addition to these, circles and ovals add life to any room. The design style is also modest when it comes to the use of ornaments. Excessive use of ornaments is believed to interrupt the flat surface and clean lines. 

Preferred materials of the design style

When it comes to the materials often used and seen, wood and plastic are the best choices. Although other materials may be used, wood and plastic are the primary choices. Wood is usually painted with an opaque finish to cover the natural grain. Shiny or glossy metals boost the identity of the design style. Stainless steel, for instance, is common in the legs of chairs and the body of lamps. Plastics are often used for smoother and even surfaces. 

Modern design style – its development

Modern design style started its popularity during the World War 2 era. It has its influences on the decorative arts in the early 20th century, especially with the Art Deco period. The rise of new concepts and materials have contributed a lot to the development of modern design style. 

The 1940s

With different inspirations, the design style used a combination of different styles during the 1940s. Examples are Art Deco and Jazz where homes are usually seen with sunny, sentimental, and patriotic accents. The decorative items used are lighter and more affordable. Furniture pieces are simple and linear with the use of materials such as wood and chrome. Carpet, ruffled draperies, floral textiles, and colored tiles are also common.

Consumerism in the 1950s

During the 1950s, consumerism increased. As a result, the demand for decorative items and materials is also increasing. Mass production of different materials such as fabric, furniture pieces, and other decorative items was boosted to make them more affordable for the middle class. The design style focused on simplicity and functionality. The kitchen is considered to be the most important room during this period. 

More relaxed design during the 1960s

Colors and patterns eventually changed during the 1960s. These elements became loud and furniture pieces became less formal and more relaxed. The 1970s relied mostly on earth-colored tones. Hand-crafted furnishings also gained popularity during this decade. 

The new wave in the 80s

As the economy was booming in the 1980s, so was the demand to make bigger houses. Furniture pieces also need to be larger to make them proportionate with the houses built. Many homes tend to grab attention due to the extreme colors used. 

Functionality and style in the 90s

Modern design style eventually toned down during the 1990s. Furnishings are sleeker and more refined. Walk-in closets, kitchen islands, and home entertainment rooms are common. These are results of the emphasis on functionality and style. 

The 21st century

The 21st century focused more on functionality. The design style is not that loud as compared with the other decades. Modern design style during this decade has the combination of modern and eclectic elements with influences from the previous decades. 

Modernism can be defined in different ways, depending on the perspective of an individual. It can be described in a multicultural and multidisciplinary approach. Experts believe that modernism in interior design is a style or movement that has a sole goal. Modernism aims to deviate from the traditional or classical forms. It is also the application of theories and principles that enhance the needs and functions that homeowners require.

Modernism – its origin

Modernism in interior design style can be traced back to the 19th century. During that time, modernists were aimed at developing new standards that were applicable and appropriate to the environment. It has been observed that the appearances of various structures have significant changes since the Industrial Revolution. Modernism only started as a school of thought. As time goes on, it has influenced other disciplines, such as politics, religion, literature, art, architecture, and interior design. Modernism is also associated with Futurism, Bauhaus, Neo-Dada, Cubism, Minimalism, and Abstract Expressionism. 

In interior design, the style is considered to be multifaceted where it embraces a holistic approach rather than as a single style. Examples of the style include an open floor plan, stylish kitchen design, trendy color palette, multifunctional shelves, and others. 

The style in interior design

The interior design style has different characteristics that can also be observed in architecture and design. It focuses on functionality and simplicity. It devoids from excessive decorations and as such, is considered to be simple and plain. As such, the design style can evoke a calm and relaxing atmosphere. 

Modernism highlights functionality before beauty and form, minimal use of texture, and clean-lined design, open spaces to allow the entry of natural light. 

Clean straight lines

Modern design style focuses on straight lines with no other details seen in furniture pieces and room appearance. The lines are sharp and very spare and are evident on sanded wood floors, open floor plans, and few walls. There is also the absence of moldings, trimmings, windows, doors, and walls. 

Minimalism

Less is more. This is what can be observed with the principle of minimalism. The interior design need not have any other unnecessary details such as excessive fabric, columns, and space-consuming cabinets. Minimalism is more focused on the simplicity and functionality of the overall interior design. In addition to these, the absence of excessive items leads to a clutterless environment. 

Bold colors

Bold primary colors are usually observed in a modern home. This is to create a focal point that will capture the attention of the viewers. A bold color scheme balances the neutral colors that are common on walls. 

The use of metal

Metals like chrome and stainless steel are used to create a modern appearance. It also includes the use of wrought iron to create a unique and interesting room design. 

Final Thoughts

Modernism is one of the compelling interior design styles that is preferred by many homeowners and designers these days. The keywords are aesthetics and simplicity. This principle gives us the freedom and flexibility in choosing the materials and methods to successfully achieve the design style.

The Nordic design style is characterized by the use of natural materials and cool shades of pastel colors. This is a design style that is known to be closely similar to the Scandinavian interior design style. The only difference is that the Nordic design style has a slightly darker edge with the use of colors like blue, green, and gray. Add different textures and you will have a room that is comfy and spacious. 

Nordic design style – its origin

Nordic interior design style has its origin from the Scandinavian region. The style rose to popularity during the 19th century. This is the period when Arts and Crafts movement had influenced the interior design industry. Nordic design style became part of different design movements. 

During the 1920s, designers from the Scandinavian region incorporated the principles of Nordic design style to modernism. Though it took many years, it was in the 1950s when the Nordic design style was widely accepted. From 1954 to 1957, the design style was observed to participate in traveling exhibits in the United States and Canada. 

The characteristics of Nordic design style

The characteristics of Nordic design style have its great influence by the Scandinavians with a touch of German. It is a combination of natural and practical ideas that are observed from everyday objects. The design style features wood, plastic, anodized metal, pressed steel, and aluminum. 

Gray and white walls

The design style primarily features crisp, clean colors, such as hues of gray, white, and cream. The colors add beauty to any room and can make them appear clean. In addition to these, the materials make the furniture and other decorative items be the highlight of the room. 

Natural textiles and plants

Indoor plants are common with the design style. Experts also have suggested that the incorporation of plants gives benefits to the mind and body. In addition to these, the plants add attractive accents to your homes. Natural textiles like burlap, linen, and cotton are likewise recommended to further enhance the Nordic-inspired home. 

Minimalist kitchens

The design style is also known for its minimalist rooms. The kitchen, for instance, appears clear, solid-colored, and clutterless. The cabinets often appear flat, plain, and simple. The rooms are usually seen in white color. 

Dark grout lines

The use of dark grout lines can give any tile a touch of pop color. The bathroom and the kitchen can have an impressive look with dark grout lines. In addition to these, white tiles can give sterility and a clean look to the rooms. 

Fireplace

Add comfort and warmth to your room with the incorporation of a fireplace. This can create a visually comfortable interior with a clean and crisp appearance. As such, the fireplace can be the focal point of your home making it look more inviting and relaxing. 

Patterns and textures

Patterns and textures in Nordic design style are usually in a monochromatic style. As such, this can be an opportunity to add a color theme. Think of the monochromatic style as a blank canvas to paint your art. 

Contemporary room design is one of the favorite design styles of many homeowners these days. There are many reasons why it is on top of the list. From the furniture pieces up to the wall design, contemporary room design will surely capture your attention and interest. Read on to learn more about the design style of the century.

The contemporary design style in your room

For some time now, contemporary design style has been one of the best choices of people when designing their homes, offices, and public spaces. If simplicity and clean lines are your preferences, then this design style is the ideal interior design for you and your family. It may be hard to find the exact definition for the design style as it encompasses many embodiments. Contemporary design style has its origins that is traced from the modern art movement. 

Contemporary design style characteristics

The design style makes use of shapes as one of the key elements. It uses geometric shapes, such as squares, rectangles with smooth curves, circles, and ovals. In general, it highlights simplicity with the use of few ornaments. The ornaments used though are believed to interrupt the even unbroken lines and flat surfaces. 

Contemporary design style also uses different materials and the most preferred are wood and plastic. Wood is usually painted with an opaque finish that covers the natural wood grain. Shiny and glossy metals are also added to highlight the contemporary design style. For instance, chair legs and body of lamps are usually made from stainless steel. In addition to these, glass and plastic are used to smoothen surfaces. 

Its origin and evolution

Contemporary design style can be traced back during the World War 2 era. It has influences from the decorative arts in the early 20th century particularly during the Art Deco period. The rise of fresh concepts and modern materials like plastics also contributed to the development of the design style. 

The 1940s

In the 1940s, the design style was observed to have the combination of different styles, such as Art Deco and Jazz, with the sunny, sentimental, and patriotic accents. During this period, the decorative items were lighter and more affordable. These are then appropriate to the growing population. Furniture pieces appear simple and linear with the combination of wood and chrome. 

The 1950s

The 1950s was observed to have a rise in the number of consumers. As such the demand for decorative items and other products also increased. As a result, there was a growth in the mass production of materials such as fabric and home furnishings. This mass production has made the materials more affordable for the general public. The design style during this period focused more on simplicity and functionality. 

Vintage period

During the 1960s, there was a change in interior design style. Colors and patterns became more conspicuous and the appearance and style of furnishings became more relaxed. The 1970s, on the other hand, depended on earth tone colors. Moreover, hand-crafted furnishings were highlighted. 

The psychedelic era

The 80s, however, are completely different. The economy is getting better, inspiring homeowners to build bigger houses. As such, furniture pieces and other decorative items also became larger. The use of bold colors is commonly seen and this is the reason why the 80s is called the psychedelic era. 

The 90s

The 1990s toned down as compared to the previous decade. Furnishings were sleeker and more refined. It is also common to see walk-in closets, kitchen islands, and home entertainment rooms. As such, the design style during the decade emphasized on functionality of the style. 

The design style these days

During the 21st century, functionality is still the highlight. Though, styles were improved to make them look more sophisticated. The design style has the combination of modern and eclectic elements with the addition of elements from the previous decade. 

Contemporary design style has an open floor plan, the presence of primary colors, minimal design, and built-in cabinets and shelves.