Graphic design is an ever-evolving art form that has been around for centuries. It has evolved from simple drawings to complex and intricate designs that can be seen all around us in logos, advertisements, websites, and more. The development of graphic design as we know it today has been marked by a range of technological advancements, social movements, and creative breakthroughs.
The Early Days
Graphic design began to emerge in the early 19th century as a way to communicate information quickly and effectively. Designers used their skills to create simplified images that could easily be understood by the public. This style of design is known as the “Gutenberg Style”, named after Johannes Gutenberg who is credited with inventing the printing press in 1440.
The Industrial Revolution
The industrial revolution dramatically changed graphic design and brought about new technologies such as photography and lithography which allowed designers to create more detailed and intricate designs. Designers began experimenting with new techniques such as abstraction, cubism, and surrealism which pushed the boundaries of what was possible in graphic design.
The Digital Age
As technology advanced even further during the 20th century, graphic designers were able to take advantage of computers and software applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to produce even more innovative designs. These tools allowed designers to create complex visuals that could not be achieved with traditional methods such as painting or drawing by hand.
Social Movements
In addition to technological advancements, social movements have also played a role in shaping modern graphic design. In the 1960s, designers began using their work to make powerful statements about civil rights, gender equality, and other important issues of the time which led to a surge in politically charged graphics being used in publications and advertising campaigns around the world.
Conclusion
Graphic design has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 19th century and continues to evolve every day with new technologies being developed constantly. The developments that created graphic design as we know it today are vast but include technological advancements such as photography and lithography, creative breakthroughs through experimentation with different styles of art like abstraction and surrealism, as well as social movements like civil rights which have all helped shape this ever-evolving art form.