The industrial revolution in Europe represented a massive growth in industry and business. Heavy metalwork, machinery, soot and grease are everywhere and the people reflect this. Many things were built on new, bigger scales and the role of much of the population became little more than parts in a massive machine, driving the industry forward with sweat and blood.
The industrial revolution inspired a creative style known as SteamPunk- though not historically accurate, it reflects the machinery and inventiveness of the era, along with hints of the tough working conditions.
New inventions were changing the world, including steam engines, pistons, rifled guns and the telegraph. Many inventions didn't stand the test of time but the ingenuity of the age created many weird and terrifying contraptions, expanding the limits of what people considered possible.
I got the opportunity to see more steampunk themed items at Comicon Liverpool 2016. The artist/s had adapted iconic characters and equipment from the Star Wars franchise, inspired by the Industrial Revolution impression of the future.
I was really impressed with the way that the two themes were merged and sci-fi technology created with low-tech techniques, materials and style. |