Pattern and Application: Basic Textbook for Design and Art in Higher Education

Author: Xiao Fei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-02
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 higher education has not yet undertaken bold, forward-looking reforms, using textbook development to align course content with practical societal needs, keeping pace with the times, and adjusting for issues within the curriculum system can be considered an effective approach. This is especially necessary and meaningful in the current context of an overwhelming flood of various textbooks, teaching materials, and even so-called monographs. In light of this, 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 primary purpose of this effort was 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 both the times and disciplinary improvement. After repeated refinement, 26 textbooks were selected as the foundational textbooks for design and art education. These textbooks strive to highlight three key features: a distinct design perspective—reflecting the modern characteristics of design, market-oriented, and international trends; a strong sense of the times—new concepts, new content, new materials, and new case studies; and outstanding practicality—emphasizing the practical and applied nature of design disciplines while focusing on teaching needs.
Ornamental patterns emerge, develop, and evolve within the broader historical context of social, political, economic, and cultural changes, and they are closely intertwined with people's lives, production, and environments. They not only reflect material interests but also embody spiritual values, always brimming with a rich sense of the times. Different ethnic groups and countries possess their own unique artistic languages in decorative patterns, showcasing excellent traditions of continuity, inheritance, and creativity, thereby creating a splendid cultural heritage of historical value. Mr. Lei Kuiyuan, the founder of modern Chinese pattern theory, once said: "Pattern is the foundation of modern design, and traditional art is the foundation of learning patterns." We have briefly organized decorative patterns from all over the world, both ancient and modern, using visual education to help learners discover the laws of beauty and seek innovative inspiration. Learning from the past is to guide the present, and guiding the present is to better create the future.