Week 5

Excursion to Power House Museum  - The 80's Are Back

Report on my response to design solutions/responses to issues at the time.

http://mylifeasamagazine.blogspot.com/2010/06/80s-are-back-at-sydney-powerhouse.html

             After the war the 80's culture rebelled from the traditions. From the exhibition it was clear that music became highly influential in both look and sound. Many artists were put into the spotlight by shows like 'Young Talent Time' and 'Mickey Mouse Club', also the introduction of 'MTV' boosted many artists careers. For example; Madonna, Michael Jackson and ACDC. The music became as much about the look as the sound. Bands and artists tours, albums and dance parties brought people together. This 80's era was all about being optimistic and happy, bringing people together and a freedom from the traditions. Sitcoms like 'Home and Away' and ' Neighbours' were shown at prime time television and recreated social issues that audiences lived, it again brought families together as they watched and empathised with the characters. From this freedom came new and original style. Ranging from music to fashion to gaming and technology.

            A rise of sub-cultures were seen as people strove to be different and individual, often copying or influenced by the music and bands that were popular at the time. Such as metal heads, goths, hip hop, etc.

           Women rose up in the workplace along with their corporate look of braod shouldered jackets, which gave them a sense of power and authority. There was a 'yuppie' generation where everyone had financial freedom, they made the money and spent the money on themselves without feeling any guilt. The media pressured many families to buy what seems like junk, the 'Kitsch' of the time. It was a decade of conspicuous consumption and 'must-haves' for both kids and adults, including the Rubix Cube and toys.

http://www.dimensionsguide.com/rubiks-cube-dimensions/

http://www.france24.com/en/node/4951208

            Many things of the past always get recreated and the 80's is no exception, it is only an example of what is seen today. Yes, the music, fashion and 'must-haves' have been altered for todays contemporary consumers the basis is most likely the 80's. Today's society is reproducing the dance culture, the fashion (for example, Lady Gaga as an extreme) and the music.

           The introduction of technology like the computer, helped business to thrive. Similar to today where technology is forever advancing and helping business to thrive. The concerns of the 80's were focused on the environment, a possible threat of a nuclear war and third world poverty, all under the 'Greed is good' philosophy which galvanised the public into action and protest. Todays concerns are very similar.

            I do believe the 80's was a step towards the value of each other and gender, music and fashion as an expression and individual opinion. The sitcoms, music, fashion and changing society all were necessary changes after the war had destroyed hope. The generations of the 80's were able to live again and all the technological and design advances helped curve them in a positive direction.

http://www.thevine.com.au/gig-guide/?page=2