Portfolio Task 2 - Modernist Graphic Design

The easiest way to do this is to first establish a set of paradigms associated with modernist design, below are some of the most noticeable factors behind modernist design
- the idea that form follows function
- the idea that ornament is crime, put forward by Adolf Loos
- sans serif fonts
- internationalism
- use of new materials and processes


Designer Unknown (June 1960) "Neue Grafik", http://wiedler.ch/felix/books/story/260

The above piece of design is strikingly obvious as modern, it embellishes three of the aformentioned traits of modernism at a first glance through its use of various languages and use of sans serif fonts. Furthermore the grid layout and lack of any unecessary details follow the premise that ornament is crime.


Norburg, H (1904-1983) "Zürcher Künstler im Helmhaus", http://www.flickr.com/photos/blankaposters/4422092902/

This image breaks the mould of traditional grid layouts and has everything at a 45 degree angle, on top of this it utilises sans serif fonts, use of simple block colour and new printing methods.


Rodchenko (1923) "Older Lef" cover, http://www.flickr.com/photos/20745656@N00/576280459/

Here we can see use of new printing processes, distinct use of sans serif fonts and block colour, it also makes use of photographic like imagery. This could also been seen as constructivist design, often in favour of design to be used for social purposes as opposed to ornamentation.


Beck, H (1933) "London Underground Map", http://daithaic.blogspot.com/2009_11_01_archive.html

This is a strong example of form following function shown in a printed map, the map also takes into account use of sans serif fonts and a certain level of grid layout. It can also be said that it shows a certain level of internationalism in that it can be recognised by anyone from anywhere, since its creation it has also been copied to create maps for various other underground systems recognised all over the world.


Haara, H (1936) "Poster for 1940 Olympics held in Tokyo", http://pinktentacle.com/2011/02/japanese-graphic-design-from-the-1920s-30s/

This piece of design again utilises sans serif fonts and follows a basic grid layout, however it also features the olympic rings, an internationally known symbol. It is also very simple, rejecting fancy imagery and following the school of thought that ornament is crime.