Letterists

The Letterists were a radical artistic and political movement that emerged in Paris in 1950. Founded by Maurice Lemaître, the group sought to create a new form of art and social critique through the radical manipulation and deconstruction of language, images, and social conventions. They are often considered a precursor to the Situationist International.

Their work involved the creation of "letterist poems," which were characterized by the use of single letters, syllables, or fragmented words, often presented visually in a highly abstract manner. This rejection of traditional narrative and meaning was intended to expose the underlying structures and assumptions of language and society. The Letterists also engaged in provocative public performances and interventions, aiming to disrupt everyday life and provoke critical thought. Their activities included "unmaskings" where they would reveal the perceived emptiness of established cultural figures and institutions.

The movement's ideology was deeply intertwined with a critique of consumerism, mass media, and bourgeois culture. They advocated for a complete revolution of everyday life, envisioning a society free from alienation and commodification. While their membership was relatively small, their ideas had a significant impact on later avant-garde movements, particularly the Situationist International, which absorbed many Letterist members and principles. The Letterists officially dissolved in 1957, merging with other groups to form the Situationist International. Their legacy lies in their pioneering work in deconstruction and their influence on critical theory and experimental art.