Revised 09/99
ART 250 - History of Design (3 CR.)
Course Description
Surveys the development of graphic design and illustration with emphasis on the 19th and 20th centuries. Analyzes the work of outstanding designers and illustrators. Lecture 3 hours per week.
General Course Purpose
The purpose of the History of Design is to provide the student with historical background in the development of present day design forms. It will demonstrate the relevance of studio practice in design to past art and design styles, and to social, economic and technological factors, particularly the impact of mass production and the machine on design. History of Design will provide the knowledge and visual literacy necessary for the practice of the design profession in the modern world. English 101 and Design 1, ARTS 131 are recommended pre‑requisites.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
Competency in basic design and visual literacy, as well as the ability to write English composition at the first year college level.
Course Objectives
Upon the completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- Develop visual awareness of the present day environment
- Recognize and relate design forms to historical precedents and possible future developments
- Have a greatly increased general knowledge, including source material which he/she can draw on for future student and development in the field of design
- Continue to develop thinking processes necessary for understanding the relationship between design and technology
Major Topics to Be Included
- Underlying Themes
- Factors in design in all periods
- Nature, attitudes toward nature and the environment
- Movements and Historical Developments
- Prehistory to 1800
- The 19th Century
- Transitional Period to Modern Design
- The 20th Century