What Does Avant-Gardist Meaning?

From the French, avant-garde describes experimental or innovative art or design, or the group of people who make them and push the envelope in their field. It can also more generally refer to anything considered “unorthodox” or “radical.”

What does avant-garde literally mean?

Avant-garde is originally a French term, meaning in English vanguard or advance guard (the part of an army that goes forward ahead of the rest).

What is a gardist?

(ä′vänt-gärd′, ăv′änt-) A group that creates or promotes innovative ideas or techniques in a given field, especially in the arts. adj. Of, relating to, or being part of an innovative group, especially one in the arts: avant-garde painters; an avant-garde theater piece. [French, from Old French, vanguard; see vanguard.]

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.