There’s an exciting trend emerging. Except that it’s not completely new. In fact, its origins are ancient.
Yes, we’re going right back in time. Beyond retro, vintage or antique. This is ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome – but with a modern twist.
It goes back to basics, with a return to natural materials and greater simplicity, mixed with contemporary elements.
And it’s capturing our imagination in every creative sphere.
From TV and film, starting with the popular cult series Spartacus. To the film offerings coming out this year: two separate versions of Hercules, Pompeii, Noah, 300: Rise of an Empire. And at the end of the year, Ridley Scott’s Exodus starring Aaron Paul of Breaking Bad fame.
Then there is the futuristic Hunger Games (with the next film in the series due out at the end of November). Suzanne Collins, author of the popular trilogy cites Roman gladiatorial games and Greek mythology as the main inspiration for the story.
Moving onto fashion, witness the popularity of Gladiator sandals and cuffs …
Meanwhile, hip LA Streetwear Brand Stampd has partnered with contemporary artist and sculptor Daniel Arsham to produce a limited edition series of long-sleeve T-shirts. The collection features illustrations of ancient statues with geometric forms in place of their eyes.
Daniel Arsham also recently collaborated with artist and singer Pharrell Williams to produce a series of sculptural keyboards. Based on the 1980’s Casio keyboard – the first instrument Pharrell ever made music on – it is modeled out of volcanic ash, crystal and steel. With echoes of Pompeii, they are made to look like fossilized relics. Ancient meets modern literally.
In sport and fitness, people are returning to their ancient roots and participating in the Spartan Race. Or training like a gladiator through Legion Training.
Inspiration from antiquity is of course also having a subtle, yet large impact on interiors. Influencing everything from materials and style to colours and patterns.
The definitive look is one of simplicity. A few key pieces or a focal point, rather than full on opulence.
We’re falling in love all over again with natural materials like wood, leather, stone and marble.
And in home accessories, the metallics of the moment are copper, bronze and antique gold.
Hints of ancient Egypt are echoed in shades of blue from turquoise to lapis lazuli.
While geometric patterns from ancient Rome and Greece are being given a modern update and often blended with Scandinavian aesthetics.
Fired Earth‘s new Rhombus Mosaics is a perfect example of this. The pattern is a new take on a design that dates back to ancient Greece. And the result is a dramatic 3d effect that’s perfect for contemporary interiors.
There’s a growing appreciation of artisans and craftsmanship. A revival of ancient crafts. And an increased preference for the handmade and slightly imperfect over mass produced homeware.
Right now we’re excited about this rediscovery of antiquity. But where does it stem from? Is it because it’s infused with mystery and adventure? Or because it appears to be a time when life was a bit more simple, materials were natural and people lived at a slower pace?
Chris Brogan is the publisher of Owner Magazine and author of the forthcoming The Freaks Shall Inherit the Earth. He recently discovered his “inner warrior” and is currently training for the Spartan Races in August.
“I chose to do the Spartan Races because they represent a challenge that goes well beyond the typical 5K or 10K. It’s about obstacles and pushing beyond your comfort level, and the like.” Chris explains, “What appealed specifically about this race is that the mindset of the Spartan is a pure desire to push away comfort and seek challenge. I think we’re all very much coddled and cushy in our new worlds.”
I asked him why he thought this growing interest in antiquity is happening right now?
“People tend to use the past and the future for two different goals. We use the future when we want to think of where to go or when we want to escape the problems of now. We use the past when we feel overwhelmed by the reality around us or when we seek a stronger tie back into wisdom we feel is lacking from the world. I think we need more of the past right now, as the future seems to be here in full effect.”
On reflection, perhaps ancient meets modern is less of a trend and more of a new philosophy?
With life becoming more routine and sedentary. More complicated and mass produced. Ancient meets modern gives us the best of both worlds. Modern comforts and technology with some of the simplicity, sensuality and beauty of ancient times.
