ART 373 History of Design

A survey of the history of modern design (1500-present) as expressed in graphic, industrial, and the decorative arts. The aim of this class is to understand why designed objects look the way they do considering their history, function, style, use, and materials. Of special interest will be design's relationship to culture, to art history, and to media. Students will learn to identify historic styles and the work of important designers and illustrators and to a certain extent, the history of material culture. Readings and the first-hand examination of objects lead toward a final research project. Formerly ART 373.