Product Design: Influences on and trends within: 1900 to Present

Catalog description

A personal perspective on some of the prominent influences and trends in the field of product design since its inception as a recognized commercial discipline, some 100 years ago. The growth of mass-production, its development from craft-based making origins, the impact of technological developments, two world wars, the presence of visual media and advertising, and other cultural waves and trends all show themselves in the products we design, desire, produce and inspire us. Through a series of talks, readings, presentations and a few guest speakers, the class will take a less-than-formal approach to looking at how we got from where we were then to where we are now. There will be discussions, writings, and a visual, notated journal to track your thinking, express your reactions, and thoughts, and the beginnings of a visual archive to take with you after the course ends. An interest in product as a window into cultural thinking is recommended, but not required. Writing, sketching, and searching skills are recommended for participants. Assessment is based on participation, engagement, and the building of a personal archive. 15 students maximum. Preference given to P track undergraduates