History of Graphic Design
This exercise will have students work in small groups to research and present on a specific period in the history of graphic design. The goal is for them to understand the key characteristics, influential figures, and social context of their assigned movement.
Instructions
- Form Groups: Divide into groups of 2-3 students.
- Assign Periods: Each group will be assigned one of the following graphic design periods:
- Arts and Crafts Movement (c. 1880–1910): This movement reacted against industrialization by emphasizing handmade craftsmanship, simple forms, and natural materials. William Morris is a key figure.
- Dada (c. 1916–1924): A rebellious, anti-art movement that used collage and photomontage to create chaotic and provocative works. It was a protest against the war and bourgeois society.
- Constructivism (c. 1920s–1930s): Originating in Russia, this movement saw art as a tool for social change. It’s known for its geometric shapes, stark color palette (red, black, white), and use of bold typography. El Lissitzky and Aleksandr Rodchenko are two influential designers.
- Art Deco (c. 1920–1940): Representing luxury and glamour, Art Deco is characterized by strong lines, geometric patterns, and bold symmetry. It was prevalent in fashion, architecture, and advertising. A.M. Cassandre is a prominent designer from this period.
- Mid-Century Modern (c. 1945–1965): This period is defined by clean lines, organic shapes, and a sense of optimism following World War II. It significantly influenced corporate branding and advertising. Paul Rand and Saul Bass are major figures.
- Digital Age / Y2K (c. 1990s–2000s): The rise of personal computers and the internet allowed for more experimental designs. This era is known for digital textures, gradients, and a playful, sometimes chaotic aesthetic that broke from traditional print design rules. David Carson is a key designer from this time.
- Arts and Crafts Movement (c. 1880–1910): This movement reacted against industrialization by emphasizing handmade craftsmanship, simple forms, and natural materials. William Morris is a key figure.
- Research & Create a Slideshow:
- Research your assigned period.
- Collaborate to create a 5 to 10 slide maximum presentation.
- Use a program like Google Slides or PowerPoint.
- Five slides of content / The rest can be images
- Source all information with links
- The presentation should be visually engaging and reflect the style of the period you’re researching.
Example Presentation Slide Breakdown
- Slide 1: Title Slide
- Title of the presentation (e.g., “The Art Nouveau Movement”).
- Your group members’ names.
- A representative image of the design style.
- Slide 2: Background & Key Concepts
- The approximate years of the movement.
- A brief summary of the historical context. What was happening in the world at the time?
- List 2-3 key characteristics of the design style (e.g., use of grids, organic lines, bright colors).
- Slide 3: Influential Figure & Example
- Highlight one influential designer or artist from the period.
- Include a short bio and an image of their work.
- Explain how their work demonstrates the style’s key concepts.
- Slide 4: A Modern Influence
- Find an example of modern graphic design (e.g., a logo, website, or ad) that shows a clear influence from your assigned period.
- Explain the connection. How does the modern example use elements from the historical style?
- Slide 5: Summary & Takeaway
- Create a simple, concise summary of the movement’s main legacy.
- What is the one most important thing to remember about this period in graphic design history?
Grading Rubric
| Research qualityThe presentation demonstrates thorough and accurate research. It correctly identifies the key characteristics, influential figures, and social context of the assigned period. | 5 points |
| Aesthetics of the presentationThe slideshow is visually outstanding and reflects the aesthetic of the researched period. All slides are well-designed, cohesive, and use imagery effectively to support the content. The 5-slide limit is respected. | 5 points |
| Presentation skillsThe group presents with excellent confidence and clarity. All members contribute equally, speak professionally, and engage the audience. The presentation is well-paced and delivered within the time limit. | 5 points |
| Total | 15 points |
(Professional 5 points, Proficient 4 points, Needs Improvement 3 points, Failure 1-2 points)
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