Notes on Modernism
Posted in Obsession » Design on July 7, 2009 at 9:50 AM
From American Modernism: Graphic Design, 1920-1960 by R. Roger Remington
In the new language of graphic design, these radical characteristics defined Modernism:
Process Values
- to reject traditional forms and decorative elements
- to seek a solution that is simple and direct
- to be concerned with the process by which the designer worked
- to use systematic methods rather than intuitive ones
- to use rational, objective approaches to the solving of a graphic problem
- to think about relationships in form and contentFormal visual values
- to use geometric shapes: the circle, the triangle, the square
- to use primary colors
Typography
- to use sans serif typefaces
- to show contrast in typographical material
- to base on pragmatic issues of printing, paper sizes, photo-engraving, standardizationImagery
- the use of photographs and photomontage rather than drawings or illustrations
- the use of silhouetted photographs with white backgrounds
- the use of maps and diagrams
- the use of graphic symbols and iconsOrganization
- the use of asymmetric page layout
- the use of a grid or clearly delineated page-organizing method
- to apply a planned visual hierarchy in the manner in which the graphic elements were integrated
- to know and apply perceptual laws (i.e. keeping elements grouped)
- to apply continuity in page flow
While thinking about The Card Cheat's cover design, I want these notes to stick around. I'm a big fan of Modernism and Constructivism and I'd love to apply their philosophies to the design of the book.
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