Retrofuturist

A retrofuturist is an artistic or design aesthetic that draws inspiration from depictions of the future produced in the past. It blends outdated visions of the future with contemporary technology and sensibilities, often characterized by streamlined designs, optimism, and a focus on automation and technological advancement. Retrofuturism explores the contrast between what was imagined and what became reality, creating a nostalgic and often ironic commentary on technological progress and societal aspirations. It can manifest in various forms, including architecture, fashion, art, literature, and film.

Retrofuturist meaning with examples

• The sleek, chrome-clad airships and robotic servants in the film perfectly embody retrofuturist visuals. This imagined future, from the 1950s, contrasted starkly with the gritty realism of the present. It used stylized technology that was once thought revolutionary to give viewers a sense of wonder and showcase a different view of progress.
• Her fashion choices are a clear example of a retrofuturist style; she combined vintage space-age silhouettes with modern fabrics. The collection incorporated bold colours and geometric patterns, reminiscent of the optimistic designs of mid-century predictions of the future. It celebrated the past's aspirations.
• The novel depicts a society that achieved the 'Jetson's-esque' future via time travel and applied retrofuturist ideas. They built houses and machines to meet the previous, imagined ideas of a future. It's a nostalgic, futuristic depiction of what was once dreamt to be.
• The museum's exhibit showcased retrofuturist architecture designs, depicting cities with flying cars and gleaming skyscrapers that combined elements of the past and the then-imagined future. Visitors were enthralled by the contrast between what was once deemed possible and what is actual.