Film Pavilion: 9 New Films About Design and Designers

Contents:

• «Technotoys»
• «The Spirit of Bauhaus»
• «Aalto»
• «The History of Russian Design»
• «The History of a Great Country. Constructivism"
• "Why are we creative?"
• "Mau"
• "Technical aesthetics: Leningrad"
• "Margiela: in his own words"

When you're relaxing or taking a break from your daily routine, we suggest spending your time productively and watching new films about design and designers. We've prepared a list of films released since 2018 that will inspire you and enrich your understanding of the world of design. These films will help you learn about the creative process, new trends, and outstanding personalities in the design industry, so you won’t regret spending your time.

Tech Toys

The series immerses viewers in a world of futuristic technology that combines innovative design, engineering excellence, and eco-friendly solutions. Each of the seven episodes, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes in length, explores various aspects of industrial design, from headphones to yachts, including desks and motorcycles. This project demonstrates how contemporary design can solve problems that many people don't even consider, highlighting the importance of sustainable technology in our lives.

In "TechnoToys," engineers and industrial designers present their innovative developments and share the processes behind creating unique products. They talk about how they refine forms, overcome technical limitations, and plan for the future. For example, a sound amplifier that can turn any surface into a speaker, a backpack with a built-in solar charger, and a bicycle with a wooden frame. The successes of these professionals can inspire the implementation of their own original ideas and bold solutions in design and technology.

When a designer faces a lack of inspiration, it is important to know how to cope. Experts recommend several effective strategies. First, try a change of scenery: a walk in the fresh air or working in a different place can help refresh your thoughts. Second, it is useful to immerse yourself in the world of art by viewing the work of other designers or visiting exhibitions. You can also try new techniques and tools, which can open up unexpected horizons. Finally, it is worth setting aside time for rest and reflection to allow the brain to "reboot". These tips will help the designer regain inspiration and activate the creative process.

When a designer faces a lack of inspiration, it is important to know how to return to the creative process. Experts recommend several methods to help overcome creative block. First, try a change of scenery: a walk in the fresh air or working in a new place can stimulate creativity. Secondly, look through your favorite works or inspiring projects of your colleagues to find new ideas. It's also helpful to engage in something else, such as a hobby or physical activity, which helps restore energy and provide a fresh perspective on the task. Don't forget the importance of breaks—they help avoid burnout and maintain productivity. Finally, connecting with other designers or participating in online communities can be a source of new ideas and motivation.

"The Spirit of Bauhaus"

For the centenary of the Bauhaus, filmmakers Nils Bolbrinker and Thomas Thielsch explore the utopian ideas of this school, their history, and their influence on modern times. The film examines how the idealistic vision of a brighter future, formed by a group of people in the 1920s, continues to influence politics, architecture, and design around the world. This project highlights the relevance of Bauhaus ideas and their significance in contemporary discussions about aesthetics and functionality.

An idea can influence society for an entire century if you think big. Students in Dessau learned crafts, enjoyed socializing, and developed creative thinking, which led to the creation of innovative products such as the Apple computer. "The Spirit of the Bauhaus" is a 90-minute lesson on how the harmony between structure and creativity, order and inspiration, can lead to outstanding solutions that can bring significant benefits to society.

Aalto

Alvar Aalto is a Citizen Kane figure in the world of architecture and industrial design. His life is a fascinating story of Finnish modernism, where the young revolutionary became a symbol and patriarch against whom new generations of designers rebelled. The documentary explores Aalto's iconic architectural objects and unique design solutions, demonstrating how even a simple stool reflects the great architect's humanistic ideas. The film also highlights the significant contribution of his wife, Aina, to Alvar's success, making their shared story even more inspiring. This film is an important contribution to understanding Aalto's legacy and his influence on contemporary architecture and design.

Aalto's ideas and developments became the foundation of Scandinavian design and have had a significant impact on the daily lives of people around the world. IKEA owes much of its success to this outstanding designer. The documentary demonstrates that when you care about the people at the center of the creative process, the results can be truly impressive.

«The History of Russian Design»

The Moscow Design Museum's educational film project explores four key periods in the development of design in Russia from 1917 to 2017. The series covers the path from the avant-garde to VNIIITE, from the early USSR to the present day, presenting iconic objects, phenomena, and institutions. It introduces viewers to outstanding individuals who played a significant role in the history of design over the course of a century. This project is an important contribution to understanding the evolution of design in our country and its influence on contemporary culture.

"The History of Russian Design" is an educational resource that covers key concepts and important events in design over the past 100 years. This documentary will be an excellent tool for systematizing knowledge of the history of Russian design and will help fill gaps in understanding this topic. We recommend watching it with your grandmother so she can better understand your profession and interests.

We recommend watching this four-part film before visiting the exhibition "History of Russian Design. Selected Works. 1917–2022," which is on display at the New Tretyakov Gallery until the end of November 2022. The film will help you better understand the context and significance of the works on display, and will also introduce you to key moments in the development of Russian design over the past century.

The Moscow Design Museum (MDM) is the only institution in Russia specializing in design. In this interview, we talk with its founder, Alexandra Sankova, about the importance of plastic art in contemporary design and the museum's future, including its ambitious space projects.

The Moscow Museum of Design is a unique design museum in Russia. This interview with founder Alexandra Sankova discusses key aspects of plastic arts and the museum's ambitious future projects. Learn about the importance of design in contemporary society and how the Moscow Museum of Design influences the country's cultural landscape.

"The history of a great country." Constructivism"

In the twenties and thirties, the new Soviet state was forming its unique image. This period saw the emergence and flourishing of creative ambitions and rapid industrial advances. Constructivism, which emerged almost simultaneously with the October Revolution, became an important artistic movement, gaining worldwide recognition. This documentary explores key Constructivist projects, examining their context, ideas, and historical significance, as well as highlighting moments of its ban, oblivion, and the legacy that continues to influence contemporary art and architecture.

Sculpture, architecture, and propaganda: learn more about Tatlin's Tower in our article. This unique structure became a symbol of the Russian avant-garde and reflects ideas of revolution and progress. We will consider how Tatlin's Tower combines artistic and architectural elements, as well as its influence on contemporary art and architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the significance of this outstanding work and its place in history.

"The History of a Great Country" is a project designed for those seeking more information about Constructivism than is presented in "The History of Russian Design." This project delves into the cultural and historical aspects associated with the development of design in Russia and offers a more detailed examination of Constructivism's influence on contemporary art and architecture.

The visual code of Constructivism became a universal language of design. Melnikov, Rodchenko, and Lissitzky—outstanding figures at VKHUTEMAS—laid the foundations for modern typography, architecture, and graphic design. In 1920, they were unlikely to realize their significance; they were young and striving to express a new vision. Studying constructivism can inspire you to create your own breakthrough ideas and approaches in design.

"Why Are We Creative?"

The film's director spent 30 years collecting answers from famous people to a simple question: "Why are you creative?" Among the interviewees are not only artists, but also people who have found their calling in various fields. Some of them offer witty comments, while others struggle to express their thoughts, which highlights the multifaceted nature of creativity. Hundreds of interviews with such figures as David Bowie, Stephen Hawking, Angelina Jolie, the Dalai Lama, Yohji Yamamoto, and Mikhail Gorbachev are edited into a dynamic and captivating film that reveals the depth of the creative process and the inspiration that drives society's greatest minds. The film becomes a valuable resource for anyone interested in creativity and its impact on life and career.

The film "Why Are You Creative?" encourages viewers to consider their creativity, self-expression, and the influence of the external environment on the creative process. Self-reflection is an important aspect of any art project, and this film serves as a reminder to examine one's thoughts and feelings. It inspires deep reflection on how the people and circumstances around us shape our perception of creativity and individuality.

«Mau»

This documentary about Bruce Mau, author of the design bible "S, M, L, XL," asks the important question: "Who is Bruce Mau?" This inspiring story explores how the preeminent Canadian graphic designer achieved international success in his field. The film showcases his significant projects, including the redesign of an entire country and the creation of a brand for the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). This documentary not only reveals Mau's personality but also shows how his innovative ideas and approaches changed the world of design.

Mau significantly expanded the scope of design, serving as a leading advocate for the boundless power of this art. If you share his views, we recommend learning more about Bruce and his career to hear his unique experiences and perspectives firsthand. This will help you better understand how design can influence various areas of human activity and open up new possibilities.

«Technical Aesthetics: Leningrad»

The second part of the trilogy about the creators of our country's material culture is dedicated to Leningrad engineers and designers. This film explores their contribution to both everyday object design and the creation of highly complex objects. Among the works mentioned are tools for working in zero-gravity conditions and the icebreaker "Lenin", which became a symbol of engineering thought and atomic aesthetics. The first part of the trilogy covers the Ural School of Design, and the third part, dedicated to Moscow, is still in development.

"Technical Aesthetics: Leningrad" is a study of VNIITE, design bureaus, and industrial designers who created products for both a general audience and for significant purposes. They faced various limitations, but many of their projects never reached the concept stage. Explore this illustrated encyclopedia of the recent past to acknowledge their work and inspiration.

"Margiela: In His Own Words"

The film focuses on the hands and voice of the most enigmatic couturier, Martin Margiela. It explores his career, ideas, life circumstances, and memories, without ever showing his face. The film features numerous unique archival shots of the designer's hands interacting with fabrics, albums, and expressing his emotions. This is a profound story about a couturier who demonstrated the power of anonymity and left a lasting mark on the fashion world.

Maison Martin Margiela offers stylish and modern pieces that remain relevant regardless of the year they were created—be it 1992 or 2008. The brand pioneered the integration of recycling into the world of high fashion, making it special among connoisseurs of unique style and sustainability.

The film is a masterpiece of design provocation, in which Martin consistently illustrates the key idea: behind every creative work there must be a profound concept, not a desire for fame. This approach emphasizes the importance of meaningful design and its role in contemporary art.