!? GD2-AW09 – Graphic Design History: The Age of Information

LT – 2.1. Modern design in America 

The task

Part 1

Explore social media and the Internet to find examples of conceptual illustrations that aptly describe a complex political, social or cultural idea. See if you can find examples of:
  • publications that address global issues and so-called wicked problems; and
  • publications that address national issues (like your local newspaper for example).
Write a sentence or two about these illustrations and publish them on your WordPress blog. Remember to give credit to the publication and (if possible) to the illustrator.
 

Part 2

Today you’ll design a psychedelic poster. You can use this poster in your leaflet for the course assignment.

Here is a handy Photoshop tutorial in two parts on how to create a 1960s psychedelic poster (but feel free to do it your own way):

LT – 2.2. Postmodern design

The task

Today you’ll design a Pop Art-style poster. You can use this poster in your leaflet for your course assignment. The subject doesn’t matter – it’s completely up to you.

The article below will show you various examples within the style – don’t be tempted to use an existing Canva template! The idea is for you to understand and appreciate how to use this style in modern-day graphic design.

Instead, look at the examples showcased, take inspiration from them, and apply them to your design. There are many YouTube tutorials as well – explore and have fun.

LT – 2.3. The digital revolution

The task

Today you’ll design a poster where the New Wave/Punk style is evident. You can use this poster in your leaflet for the course assignment. Again, the poster’s subject doesn’t matter; it’s your choice.

Read the article below where Emily Gosling talks about how the ‘New Wave Graphics are the most influential designs you’ve probably ignored: the slippery, unashamedly pop-leaning genre changed everything – graphics included’. The article features wonderful examples of the genre you can use as inspiration.

LT – 2.4. Challenges ahead

The task

Find a graphic designer from history you’ve never come across before. Someone less known to the public that you feel needs some acknowledgement. Write a short paragraph (three to five sentences) about them and why you find their work inspiring and important.

Choose one or two of their works to add to your paragraph.