The idea of the past has a profound effect on art.

The destruction of things past allows for new things to be built in their stead. However, the internet has allowed for the preservation of many cultural artifacts that would otherwise be deceased. 

This situation has led to revivalism, with an example being ‘80s pop culture. This is not to say that the projects of revival are without merit; but rather, the cultural force of revival has prevented any widespread speculation about the future.

In the ‘50s, the movie “Forbidden Planet” revolutionized science fiction filmmaking and cinema in general. It was the first film to feature an all-electronic score, which is abrasive, alien and mysterious — reflecting its extraterrestrial setting. 

This movie and others like it represent the Googie and now understood as retrofuturist art style. In the spirit of post-WW2 America, many were excited and speculative about the future, giving birth to media such as “Star Trek” and works of the atompunk style.

Contrastly, in the present, there is a lack of widespread speculation of the future. This is not to say that futuristic sci-fi doesn’t exist anymore; but rather, the futuristic sci-fi that exists still emulates the tropes and framework established by the work of the ‘50s with an updated look to match the technological growth that has taken place in the past few decades. 

There hasn’t been a new “Forbidden Planet” that has revolutionized how we view the future, rather there is “Ready Player One” and “Blade Runner 2049” both of which find themselves squarely within the trend of revivalism.

I believe it is time to change our framework.

So, destroy that Lego set you worked hours to build, and from its plastic ashes, create something new. Do not be beholden to past specters.