An Introduction to Design and Culture: 1900 to the Present Book

The design of everyday goods, images and environments often goes unnoticed by the consumer, yet the impact of new materials and production processes, together with the changing nature of society and the consumption choices we make, presents designers with considerable challenges. Now in a completely new and updated edition, this book provides a history of the development of modern (and postmodern) design within its international cultural, social and economic context. Divided into four parts, the book begins with the formative years 1900-1914. Two sections on design and modernity explore the periods 1915-1939 and 1939-1969, and a completely new section, design and postmodernity covers 1970 to the present. New themes explored include postmodernism and design, the alliance between technology and design, and the relationship between identity and design. A key theme is the development of a discourse of design that can be traced through different social periods, movements and cycles. The author draws on a wealth of mass-produced artifacts, images and environments to illustrate the discussion including sewing machines, cars, chairs, televisions, fashion items, interiors, graphic communications, electronic and branded goods and exhibitions. She includes a full guide to further reading which will be of particular value to students.Read More