Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Steampunk works are often set in an alternative history of the 19th century's British Victorian era in a post-apocalyptic future during which steam power has maintained mainstream usage, or in a fantasy world that similarly employs steam power. Steampunk may also incorporate additional elements from the genres of fantasy, horror,historical fiction, alternate history, or other branches of speculative fiction, making it often a hybrid genre.
Steampunk also refers to any of the artistic styles, clothing fashions, or subcultures, that have developed from the aesthetics of steampunk fiction, Victorian-era fiction, art nouveau design, and films from the mid-20th century. Various modern utilitarian objects have been modded by individual artisans into a pseudo-Victorian mechanical "steampunk" style, and a number of visual and musical artists have been described as steampunk.
The most common historical steampunk settings are the Victorian and Edwardian eras, though some in this "Victorian steampunk" category can go as early as the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and as late as the end of World War I
Various modern utilitarian objects have been modified by enthusiasts into a pseudo-Victorian mechanical "steampunk" style. Example objects include computer keyboards and electric guitars. The goal of such redesigns is to employ appropriate materials (such as polished brass, iron, wood, and leather) with design elements and craftsmanship consistent with the Victorian era.
Steampunk fashion has no set guidelines but tends to synthesise modern styles with influences from the Victorian era. This may include bustles, corsets, gowns, and petticoats; suits with waistcoats, coats, top hats, tailcoats and spats; or military-inspired garments. Steampunk-influenced outfits are usually accented with several technological and "period" accessories: timepieces, parasols, flying/driving goggles, and ray guns. Modern accessories like cell phones or music players can be found in steampunk outfits, after being modified to give them the appearance of Victorian-made objects. Post-apocalyptic elements, such as gas masks, ragged clothing and tribal motifs, can also be included.
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Very good introduction to Steam Punk for those who don't understand it. Good examples of how it can be employed - eg. Steam powered electric guitars etc.
ReplyDeleteI would like to see more images that represent steam punk.
A good initial collection of images. Maybe try and find original Victorian and Edwardian images too eg:
ReplyDeletehttp://members.memlane.com/gromboug/fstunic.jpg
http://www.lead-adventure.de/gallery/6/163_17_04_10_11_32_50.jpg
http://www.illustratedfirstworldwar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/10725946.jpg