Conception in Zurich

Dadaism was conceived in Zurich, Switzerland in 1916 by a group of artists and intellectuals as a protest against World War I and cultural conformity

Philosophical Foundations

Nihilism and Anti-Rationalism

Dadaism was philosophically anchored in nihilism and anti-rationalism, reflecting a disillusionment with war and rational thought

Embrace of Chaos and Irrationality

Dadaists challenged traditional standards of art and society by promoting chaos and irrationality

Name and Symbolism

The name 'Dada' was chosen for its nonsensical sound and symbolized the movement's rejection of logical interpretation and commitment to creating a new art free from past constraints

Cabaret Voltaire

The Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich served as the epicenter for Dadaist expression, offering a stage for performance art that defied conventional aesthetics

Spread to Other Cities

Variations in Different Cities

Dadaism spread to cultural hubs such as Berlin, Cologne, Hanover, New York, and Paris, with each city developing its own variant influenced by local contexts

Evolution into Surrealism

The arrival of Tristan Tzara in Paris in 1920 further internationalized the movement and set the stage for its evolution into Surrealism

Impact on Art

Pioneering Techniques

Dadaism pioneered techniques such as collage, assemblage, and the use of readymades

Challenging Traditional Art

Dadaist works, such as Marcel Duchamp's 'Fountain' and 'L.H.O.O.Q.', questioned the nature of art and the role of the artist, opening up new possibilities for artistic expression

Influence on Literature

Dadaist works often employed chance operations and nonsensical elements, influencing literature and poetry

Influence on Contemporary Art

Dadaism's legacy persists as a touchstone for artists and thinkers who push the boundaries of artistic expression