Student Exercise from a Bauhaus Preliminary Course c. 1924 - 1950

Editor: Here we see a photograph titled "Student Exercise from a Bauhaus Preliminary Course" by Lucia Moholy. It depicts what looks like a small wooden model. It seems so simple, almost like a child's toy. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, the simplicity is the point! The Bauhaus preliminary course aimed to strip away preconceived notions of art and design. This exercise probably focused on pure form and material exploration. How do you think this emphasis on the basics impacted the wider art world at the time? Editor: I guess it was a reaction against more decorative styles, to focus on function and mass production? Curator: Exactly. The Bauhaus sought to integrate art into everyday life, influencing architecture, furniture, and even typography. This photograph documents a crucial step in that process. I never thought about it that way. Thanks! Editor: Thanks for explaining it!