How did the Constructivist movement influence the work of female artists in revolutionary Russia?

Abstract

This dissertation illustrates the relationship between the art movement, Constructivism and four female designers and artists producing work in Russia between 1910-1930. The artists in question; Varvara Stepanova, Lyubov Popova, Alexandra Exter and Natalia Goncharova, each interacted with the Constructivism movement uniquely. The study examines the socio-political climate in Russia at the time, it looks at society both preceding the Russian Revolution, and in the earlier Soviet years which followed. It also investigates the cultural trends which were existing outside of Russia, predominantly in Western Europe. It is with this cultural context that we can begin to investigate and understand the work the artists were producing and the Constructivist movement which they helped found, both consciously and absently. This study also explores the artist as theatrical designer movement which began in the early 20th century, investigating the reasoning behind the artist's transition from canvas to stage. Additionally, the dissertation analyses how the artists interacted with each other, as collaborators, influencers and competitors.