Design since 1945: Aesthetic Design Art Education Series

Author: (English) Peter Dommer, translated by Liang Mei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1998-10-01
Features: Since 1945, the design industry has grown rapidly, with development opportunities being a key factor. Designers have always found their place at every turning point in the history of post-war world technology and manufacturing. No matter when the market changes—such as the European market shifting from a black depression to vibrant—designers adapt accordingly. Designers act as chameleons: when needed, they can be fashion designers, corporate image strategists, ergonomists, or environmental protection experts. Not all designers are willing to be trained as professional service providers in some way. Some become handcrafted designers—simply designing and creating what they want to create. Their clients are wealthy collectors and museums. This book offers a perspective that views designers as members of a group, subordinate to institutional merchants, markets, and consumers. Design is seen as a process of development and change, rather than a series of creative sparks. This does not deny the independent role of design as a driving force, but it downplays the importance of "self-expression."