Over the years, the way designers developed their craft has changed both physically and mentally. The advancement of technology is a contributing factor to this change. Before technology rapidly increased, designers designed with the intention of providing truths and facts. According to Helen Armstrong in Graphic Design Theory, “the ideal of objectivity replaced that of subjectivity.” So, designers would detach their emotions or beliefs from their product to focus on its true nature, and purpose, that can serve people. Most designs that were made served as a function to its form. These items weren’t viewed as a form of art. This piqued my interest because the transition in art/design is obvious to the average man.
Nowadays, with advanced technology, not only are we able to communicate easily with each other, but we are able to communicate with anyone around the world. Even more so now, our lives go beyond that of the real world into metaverses. With designing in mind, not only do we still keep in mind the function and purpose, but we bind to it an emotional purpose, a purpose with belief. As designers, we have shared ideas, we are influenced by social changes, and hold beliefs in which we may want to create impact. As Helen Armstrong describes, the “design field has expanded to include more direct critical engagement with the surrounding world.” There exists a broader audience and with that an access to global awareness.
Another takeaway from the reading by Munari is that change will always happen. As a designer, we are usually told to not stick too close to our projects because they may not work or we have to let them go sooner or later. One of the main reasons that designers shouldn’t hold too close, as Munari explains, is because techniques used will change, our use of materials will change, and new problems will arise. So something that worked before and looked good, may change within a few months or years. As we advanced through life, there will always be room for new ideas and new or recycled designs.
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