Graphic Design Theory

T. Marinetti, “Manifesto of Futurism”; Aleksandr Rodchenko, “Who We Are: Manifesto of the Constructivist Group”; and El Lissitzky, “Our Book” are found in our main text Graphic Design Theory: Readings From the Field by Helen Armstrong on pages 19-31.

Questions

  • What political events were happening during the time and place that these manifestos were written? How did those events influence the authors’ beliefs? 
  • Consider if and how these manifestos addressed the concepts of authorship/ownership, universal systems of communication, and social/political engagement.
  • Which elements of these texts remain relevant for the present, and which elements are problematic? 
  • How has the communication process changed since the early 20th Century, specifically with regard to technology?

Response

In conclusion, it is evident that the manifestos were a reflection of how the times they were living through were having an effect on the art industry. The writers sought to upend the established order and increase the interpretive potential of art. Also, they were curious about how ownership of the work may affect communication networks. This was a reflection of the times, and it is still important now because it shows how history and current events may influence the creation and reception of art.

Ownership has increasingly impacted how people work today, and it is not simply a phenomenon in the arts. In several fields, including business, technology, and finance, it is increasingly widespread. Everyone must take responsibility for their job in order to ensure accountability, whether it is for their organization, their service, or their product. It fuels invention and promotes original thought. Project ownership is what keeps them on schedule and promotes greater team collaboration. It is also a means to make sure that everyone agrees on the success or failure of a project.

For a long time, graphic design has been employed to influence public opinion. Posters were used to urge enlistment in the military and to foster a sense of patriotism during World War I. Traditional imagery was employed on these posters to communicate ideas like responsibility, devotion, and family values.

Due to the development of technology since the turn of the 20th century, the practice of communication art has undergone substantial changes in many areas. The development of the telephone, radio, television, and Internet has greatly increased accessibility and effectiveness of communication art. New media like video, audio, and social media have made it possible for more diverse and inventive types of communication art in terms of content. The internet has made it simpler than ever to share and participate on works of art with individuals all over the world, enabling more varied viewpoints and debate. Lastly, the development of novel technologies, like virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D printing, has made immersive and interactive artwork both possible to make and experience. This has altered how artists produce and disseminate their work and opened up an entirely new world of possibilities for communication art.

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