Ideas from the History of Graphic Design

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/graphic-design-history

Introduction

### Course Review: Ideas from the History of Graphic Design Are you passionate about design and curious about its rich history? If so, the *Ideas from the History of Graphic Design* course on Coursera is a fantastic opportunity for you! This condensed survey course provides an insightful exploration of four pivotal periods in Western design history, offering valuable lessons for both aspiring designers and seasoned professionals alike. #### Overview The course is designed to unravel the evolution of design as a recognized practice, delving into the aesthetic choices that shape the visual landscape of today. Throughout the course, you’ll not only learn about historic design movements but also gain a deeper understanding of contemporary design’s roots. This course promotes a reflective mindset, encouraging students to question why things are designed the way they are and how various designers approached significant design challenges. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Early Mass Marketing:** In this introductory week, you’ll examine the transformative effects of industrialization in the late 19th century. The intersection of production, marketing, and consumer goods is dissected, revealing how visual strategies began to evolve in response to a growing market and changing consumer behavior. 2. **The Bauhaus:** The second week dives into the iconic Bauhaus school (1919-1933) and its profound influence on modern design. Learners will investigate the intersection of art and craft, exploring how Bauhaus thinkers championed the idea of functionalism and democratized design, laying the groundwork for contemporary design education. 3. **Modernism in America:** Mid-century America saw the emergence of unique design identities, and this week focuses on the contributions of four key designers who helped shape modernism in the US. This section is particularly enriching as it showcases how American culture influenced design aesthetics. 4. **Graphic Design Radicalism:** The final week explores the revolutionary design practices that emerged in the late 1950s to early 1970s. Here, you’ll discover the bold, experimental, and sometimes controversial works from pivotal designers and movements that redefined the boundaries of graphic design during this dynamic era. #### Who Should Take This Course? This course is perfect for a diverse audience. Whether you are a novice curious about design history, a student pursuing a degree in graphic design, or a professional seeking to deepen your understanding of design's evolution, you'll find the content both engaging and informative. Its structured approach makes it easy to follow along, and the wealth of information you’ll gain is invaluable, regardless of your current level of expertise. #### Course Format The course is delivered through a series of video lectures, readings, and assessments that encourage active participation and critical thinking. The format is flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace, ensuring a practical and tailored learning experience. #### Why I Recommend It *Ideas from the History of Graphic Design* stands out not only for its rich content but also for the passion and expertise of the instructors. The course is well-structured, with a clear progression that allows students to build on their knowledge week by week. Additionally, the exploration of significant design movements and historical context is woven into practical insights that can be applied to modern design challenges. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of design’s historical landscape and gain insights that will enhance your own design practice, this course is a must-try. Enroll today and immerse yourself in the captivating journey through graphic design history!

Syllabus

Early Mass Marketing

This week we are going to take a look at the effects of industrialization in the late 19th century, and how goods were produced, sold, and marketed.

This week, we'll look at how the work and teachings of The Bauhaus (1919-1933), and how design emerged as a recognized practice.

Modernism in mid-century America through the eyes of four key designers.

Design practice in the late 1950s to early 1970s was new, radical and divergent. To show you just how varied it was, we’ll look at the work of four key players/movements.