Graphic Design and the Computer Revolution

[Straythought]

Hi All,

Can anyone recommend any books on the history of graphic design and the graphic arts in general in connection with the advent of computers?

To give everyone a bit of background to this question, I'm starting research for a dissertation I'm doing for my degree course (in Graphic Design). I want to investigate the impact the computer revolution (which is possibly still underway) on Graphic Design, and the responses there wereto it.

My initial thoughts are that it was a big leap thatundermined the skilled and secretive craftsmenship of the pre 1980s designer, like the introduction of photosetting only bigger. Peoples perceptions and criteria for appreciation changed alsobecause almost anyonewas now able toset type and images with relative ease (and without a lengthy apprenticeship). I think that once peoplerealised how easy it nowwas to set type it soon started to lose its value.

Deconstruction is also an area that I have researched in reasonable detail, but I'm not quite sure how I'm going to tie it in with the computer revolution as its origins predate the computer. I feel strongly in my own mind though that digital technology made deconstructionist design less costly, more practical and acted as a catalyst to help it flourish and experiment.

I can't find any books that specifically charts and is dedicated to the changes that occured in the graphic arts due to theentrance of the personal computer - I wonder if anyone has come accross any on their travels?

Thanks for your help guys

Rob

[thfc]

I did the same question for my Art Foundation course (although looking at some of your analysis, not at the same level as you). I basically asked alot of graphic designers on their views (including some people here). I came up with the conclusions that it initially led to a lot of lazy, crappy design as anyone with a computer and Photoshop could pass themselves off as a graphic designer and impress clients with all the techy filters (lens flare!!!)- these kind of people helped devalue it. There were many pros and cons. I also looked at the effects on graphic designers (getting through jobs twice as fast, more pressure from clients). You've probably covered all this... I had a lot of other points but I don't have the essay at hand. I never came across any books on this exact subject but I found a number of web articles, magazines that contributed to my arguments. I'll try and find the appendix if you want.

[Straythought]

Thanksthfc,the only reason I'm tearing my hair out with all the analysis is because the critical studies tutor is fanatically strict and demandsan academic level that I'm not sure I'll need to use all that much (well at least I hope not cause it's a bit heavy!).

What does the Art Foundation course involve, because this degree I'm doing seems to be nothing but theory and no practice or opertunity to develop my instinct. I'm suppose to be focusing on the question "Why?" as the basis for the course, but my conclusion is that the subconscious plays the biggest role in creativity and spontaneous thinking - and can be stopped in its tracks with too much rational thought. I think, as quoted from Creative Review, that design is more to do with instinct from within than an interllectual conviction. That just about hits the nail on the head for me - you can discuss the philosophy and theory of design till the cows come home but it's actually doing that you learn the most from I think.

Despite having done NVQs, and HND and being in the final year of the BA, I still feel that I've yet the break through the ice (don't get me wrong the education has been a priceless experience, but not enough practice). The NVQs tought me the most practical skills, I just needed longer I think to develope my intuition.

Do you get more involved with handeling materials and "getting your hands dirty" on the foundation?

Lastly, anyone else got any suggestions for books charting the advent computers Vs Graphic Arts?

Thanks

[uncle carbunkle]

foundation courses are basically to guide people into education and get them used to the learning environment again. bring them up to speed, as it were. or that's my take on them, at least. for hands-on, i've always thought hnd would provide that, over ba - where you learn more analytical skills and theory.

if you've done all the education bits, why not get your hands dirty in an entry-level position? there's nothing like the learning curve of a job. also, i don't think there is anyone on this forum that would say they learned all they need to know from education. in my view, education is just your jumping-off point.

good luck.

:: Durable and doable in a swimsuit, yet not designed for surfing, cliff diving, extreme groping and other high-impact activities. ::

[Straythought]

Thanks for the low-down Uncle. You're probably right, I should look for an entry level design job (I'm working in Prepress full time at the mo, doing the BA part-time).

What sort of responsibilities are generally expected of an entry level graduate? I admit this is probably too vaigue a question, but I suppose I'm a little concerned that I'll be out of my depth - it seems that only the sharpest and naturally tallented get into the industry as it's that competative. I don't want to be eaten alive if you know what I mean!

I'd say that I'm pretty good at the work I do in Prepress (not meaning to blow my own trumpet) and I know I'm going to find it hard going in at the bottom again and having it all to prove. I can still remember how hard it was for me getting into Prepress - people taking advantage of my lack of knowledge, trying to show how good they were by muscling me out of the way whenever a CSE was present to show they could do it faster - that sort of thing. I'll admit that I'm not confident yetat design, I struggle with certain things and seem to go round in circles - bad enough when you're doing a course, but fatal if you're doing it commercially. I know when I've got it right though and can't ever bring myself to settle for less.


One last time - does anyone know of any books that discuss design debates, particularly any orientated around the computer revolution and Graphic Arts?

Thanks Guys