Russian Constructivism

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Gustav Klutsis, 1930                                                          El Lissitzky, 1919

Above are two examples of Russian Constructivism, both created with strong political outlooks to convey a message; propaganda. Klutis' poster is mainly collage whereas Lissitzky's is just ink but they obviously favour the same colour scheme that has become so iconic and indicative of constructivism. The composition is also similar with the diagonal format. Both pieces keep text to a minimum to let the image have the impact, in Klutis' case this is the saluting hands and figures among them and with Lissitzky's it is the way the shapes look as though they have collided, with shards flying off; representing volatility and conflict. Both pieces give the feeling of unity and fighting a common cause which was important in the country during the early 1900's. 

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Lecture Notes