It depends on what is specifically meant by current minimal aesthetic. At least in architecture, minimalist modernism we can clearly point to Aldof Loo's Ornement and Crime(1908)[1]. It includes gems such as
> The evolution of culture is synonymous with the removal of ornamentation from utilitarian objects.
> Ornament does not heighten my joy in life or the joy in life of any cultivated person.
and
> Freedom from ornament is a sign of spiritual strength.
There was not a history of minimal aesthetic before this era.
I'm not sure how this fits into any generational cycle. I'm not too keen on generational reductionism.
> The evolution of culture is synonymous with the removal of ornamentation from utilitarian objects.
> Ornament does not heighten my joy in life or the joy in life of any cultivated person.
and
> Freedom from ornament is a sign of spiritual strength.
There was not a history of minimal aesthetic before this era.
I'm not sure how this fits into any generational cycle. I'm not too keen on generational reductionism.
1. https://idoc.pub/documents/adolf-loos-ornament-and-crimepdf-...