Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/graphic-design-history
Have you ever wondered why certain design aesthetics endure, or how the visual language of advertising and branding evolved? Coursera’s ‘Ideas from the History of Graphic Design’ offers a compelling journey into the West’s design heritage, and it’s a course I highly recommend.
This condensed survey masterfully navigates through four pivotal periods and themes that have shaped graphic design as we know it. It’s not just about looking at pretty pictures; the course delves into the ‘why’ behind design’s emergence as a distinct practice and explores how influential designers tackled specific problems in their work. By examining the output of innovative groups and individuals, you gain a profound understanding of the roots of today’s diverse design landscape.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with ‘Early Mass Marketing.’ This module brilliantly connects the late 19th century’s industrialization to the burgeoning methods of producing, selling, and marketing goods, setting the stage for the visual communication that followed.
Next, we dive into the iconic ‘Bauhaus’ (1919-1933). This section is crucial for understanding how design truly began to solidify as a recognized and influential practice, exploring its revolutionary approach to art, craft, and technology.
‘Modernism in America’ then shifts the focus to mid-century America, offering insights through the lens of four key designers whose work continues to resonate. This period highlights a distinct American interpretation of modernist principles.
Finally, ‘Graphic Design Radicalism’ brings us to the dynamic era of the late 1950s to the early 1970s. This module showcases the new, radical, and divergent paths graphic design took, introducing you to key players and movements that pushed the boundaries of the field.
Overall, ‘Ideas from the History of Graphic Design’ is an accessible yet insightful course that provides invaluable context for anyone interested in visual communication, branding, or simply understanding the visual world around us. It’s an excellent starting point for appreciating the rich history that informs contemporary design.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/graphic-design-history