History of Graphic Design

Author: Men Xiaoyong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: Under the circumstances where reforms in the design and art education curriculum system have not yet been implemented top-down or bottom-up, and where radical, forward-looking reforms in higher education have not yet been carried out, using textbook development to align course content with actual social needs and keep pace with the times, thereby adjusting for issues within the curriculum system, is a reasonable and effective approach. Especially in the current context of an overflow of various textbooks, teaching materials, and even so-called monographs, this approach is particularly necessary and holds significance for bridging the past and the future. For this reason, Hunan University Press organized experts and scholars from nearly 30 institutions across the country specializing in design and art to compile this series of textbooks over a period of nearly two years. The main purpose of this effort is to promote the healthy development of design and art studies through the compilation and publication of these textbooks. To achieve this goal, experts were organized twice for deliberations to determine the types of textbooks, aiming to establish a textbook system that aligns with the development of the times and the improvement of the discipline. After repeated refinement, 26 textbooks were selected as foundational textbooks for design and art education. These textbooks strive to highlight three key features: a distinct design philosophy—reflecting the modern characteristics of design, market-oriented, and international trends; a strong sense of the times—new concepts, new content, new materials, and case studies; and prominent practicality—emphasizing the practical and applied nature of design disciplines, with a focus on teaching needs.
As a compulsory course in design education, the history of design plays a pivotal role in the entire design education system. Currently, there is a phenomenon in design education where practice is emphasized over theory, which is a cause for concern. The study and research of design history are even weaker, and "lessons" and "insights" are the significance of research in the history of graphic design. This book was written as a textbook, hoping to bring some benefits to students of design. For design and education professionals, it is only hoped to serve as a "pebble to stir the pot," sparking further discussion and innovation.