An Introduction to Design and Culture: 1900 to the Present - Softcover

Sparke, Penny

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0415263360 ISBN 13: 9780415263368

Publisher: Routledge, 2004

Synopsis

Now in a completely new and updated edition, this introduction to the development of modern (and postmodern) design is ideal for undergraduate students. Divided into four parts, the book covers the major periods in design culture since the start of the twentieth century, beginning by examining 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 to this edition are:

• key discussions on postmodernism and design
• the alliance between technology and design
• the relationship between identity and design.

Drawing on a wealth of mass-produced artifacts, images and environments including sewing machines, cars, televisions, clothes, electronic and branded goods and exhibitions, Sparke shows how design has helped to shape and reflect our social and cultural development.

About this title

Synopsis

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.

About the Author

Penny Sparke is Professor of Design History and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), Director, Modern Interior Research Centre, Kingston University. Her research interests include modern design and the modern interior with special interest in role of gender. She is currently researching the meaning of plants and flowers in the modern interior.

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0415263360
• ISBN 13: 9780415263368
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 296