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Get to know the masters

Get to know the masters
Brief: 
For our project, we have to research and study four designers from different eras. We will also have to write 500 words about each of them and then combine and present to our classmates.

Knowing about the masters of what you do is an important part of learning. Studying and looking at the works
of artists is incredibly exciting, it
is always a process of knowledge
and self-knowledge. This allows a person to be inspired by their work,
to embody something of their own. Looking at the works of masters,
you expand your horizons, your imagination.
El Lissitzky is an iconic figure of the Russian avant-garde, architect, artist, designer,
the first Russian graphic designer, photomontage master, engineer. A supporter of Suprematism was actively working on the transition of
this trend into the field of architecture, and his projects were several decades ahead of their time.

El Lissitzky was born in 1890 into a Jewish family in Russia. He initially trained as an engineer, but he later turned
his attention to art and design. He became a highly influential figure in the development of modern art and design in the early 20th century, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and designers around the world today.

Lissitzky’s work is characterized by his use of geometric shapes, bold colors, and highly innovative approaches to typography. He was heavily involved in the Russian avant-garde movement and worked with other notable artists such as Kazimir Malevich and Vladimir Tatlin.

In addition to his work as an artist and designer, Lissitzky was interested in education and played a role in the development of new methods for teaching art and design.


Lissitzky was also heavily involved
in the political and economic developments of his time. He was a supporter of the Bolshevik revolution and saw art and design as a means to promote social change and build a new society. Lissitzky was involved in the propaganda efforts of the Soviet government, designing posters and other materials to promote their policies and ideologies.
«Beat the Whites with the Red Wedge» 1919
«Beat the Whites with the Red Wedge» is a politically charged work of art created by El Lissitzky in 1917 to support the Red Army during the Bolshevik revolution. The red wedge symbolizes the revolutionaries penetrating the anti-Communist White Army, and Lissitzky’s use of coded colors reinforces the work’s title. The white circle’s smooth walls are pierced by the sharp point of the red triangle, representing the Red Army’s victory. The limited color scheme and geometric forms combine with typography, foreshadowing Lissitzky’s later work in three- dimensional visual art.
His work also had a significant impact on the economy. Lissitzky’s designs were often innovative and efficient, reflecting his engineering background. He believed that design should be functional and accessible to all, and his work played a role in the development of modern industrial design.

Lissitzky was part of a group of
artists and designers who were at the forefront of the Russian avant-garde movement in the early 20th century. This coevals included notable figures such as Kazimir Malevich, Vladimir Tatlin, and Alexander Rodchenko, among others. These artists and designers shared a common interest in the use of art and design as a means to promote social change and build a new society. They were heavily involved in the propaganda efforts of the Soviet government and worked to create new methods for teaching art and design in schools.

El Lissitzky’s work has continued
to inspire and influence artists and designers long after his death. His use of geometric shapes, bold colors, and innovative typography has been particularly influential in the fields of graphic design and typography. His impact on the world of art and design has been significant and long-lasting, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and designers around the world today.


«USSR, Russische Ausstellung» 1929
The poster was created by Lissitzky for a 1929 exhibition in Zurich. It features two equal-sized busts of a man and a woman, emphasizing gender equality in the Communist ideology. The figures are merged to represent the essence of the state. Lissitzky aimed to convey the idea of his countrymen reaching new physical and spiritual heights. The poster reflects Lissitzky’s Constructivist art style and his political beliefs.
One notable artist and designer who embodied the principles of accessible design and innovation was Bruno Munari. Munari was an Italian artist and inventor who believed that design had the power to create a fairer, more equal society. He championed the idea of «democratic design,» which aimed to make well-designed products available to people of all income levels. Munari’s innovative use of materials and emphasis on affordability in design made his work stand out in the fields of graphic design, industrial design, and visual arts.

In addition to his contributions to the arts and design, Munari also had a significant impact on education. He believed that learning should be an active and engaging process, and that education should be accessible to everyone. Munari’s educational philosophy was based on the idea of «learning by doing,» which emphasized exploration and creativity. His range of educational materials and methods were designed to encourage engagement and inspire students to learn.

Munari’s legacy of accessibility, affordability, and environmental sustainability continues to influence designers, artists, and educators today. His commitment to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing products that were also socially and environmentally responsible was revolutionary for his time and remains relevant today. Munari’s work serves as a reminder of the power of design to shape our world and the responsibility we all have to create products and solutions that are accessible, innovative, and sustainable.
Munari’s interdisciplinary approach to design, education, and social issues continues to inspire contemporary designers and thinkers. His work reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of various fields and the importance of considering the social and environmental impacts of design. Today, many designers, educators, and activists continue to advocate for democratic design and sustainable solutions, and Munari’s legacy remains relevant and impactful.
"Ricostruzione teorica di un oggetto immaginario" is a painting created by Bruno Munari in 1976. It depicts a three-dimensional object made up of various geometric shapes and appears to be floating in space. Munari’s use of color adds depth and dimension to the object, creating a playful and futuristic appearance. The title suggests that the object is an imagined creation, and Munari’s interest in the relationship between art, design, and technology is reflected in the painting. Munari believed that art and technology should be integrated to create innovative and useful products.
«Untitled» is a part of Bruno Munari’s «Segnici» series, created in 1966, which features over 500 drawings and collages exploring the visual language of signs and symbols. «Untitled» itself is an abstract composition of black ink shapes and lines on a white background that range from simple geometric forms to more complex, organic shapes. Munari believed that art should be accessible to everyone, and his use of simple shapes and lines in this work showcases his unique approach to art and design.
One of the ways in which Munari’s legacy is being carried forward is through the development of innovative materials and production techniques. Today, designers are experimenting with biodegradable and recycled materials, as well as utilizing digital fabrication technologies to create products with minimal waste. In addition, there is a growing movement towards local and community-based production, which prioritizes social and environmental sustainability over profit.


Another area where Munari’s influence can be seen is in the field of education. Many educators are embracing Munari’s «learning by doing» philosophy and incorporating creative, hands-on activities into their teaching practices. There is also a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and collaboration, recognizing the importance of considering diverse perspectives and approaches to problem-solving.

Finally, Munari’s legacy is reflected in the growing movement towards design for social impact. Many designers and activists are utilizing design thinking and human-centered design to create products and services that address social and environmental challenges, such as access to clean water, affordable housing, and sustainable transportation. These efforts reflect Munari’s belief that designers have a responsibility to create products and solutions that are socially and environmentally responsible, and that contribute to a fairer, more equal society.

In conclusion, Bruno Munari’s contributions to design, education, and social issues continue to resonate today. His commitment to democratic design, accessibility, and sustainability reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of various fields and the importance of considering social and environmental impacts. Munari’s legacy serves as an inspiration for contemporary designers, educators, and activists who are working towards a more just and sustainable future.
«Negativo-Positivo» is a painting created by Bruno Munari in 1952. It features a composition of black and white geometric shapes arranged in a dynamic, abstract pattern. The title of the painting reflects Munari’s interest in the interplay between negative space (the white areas) and positive space (the black areas) in his work. Munari believed that negative space was just as important as positive space, and he used it to create balance and tension in his compositions. «Negativo-Positivo» is a prime example of Munari’s innovative approach to art and design, and it remains a striking and influential work today.
Paula Scher is an influential American graphic designer, painter, and art educator, known for her innovative approach to typography and her use of bold colors and shapes in her designs. She was born in Virginia in 1948 and grew up in Philadelphia.

Scher began her career at Random House as a layout artist, designing book covers for many years. She later worked as an art director for CBS Records, creating album covers for artists such as Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Mick Jagger. In 1991, Scher co-founded the design firm Pentagram, where she is a partner to this day. Her work at Pentagram includes designing brand identities, environmental graphics, and packaging for clients such as Citibank, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola.

In addition to her work in graphic design, Scher is also an accomplished painter. Her paintings often feature large, abstract shapes and bold colors and have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world.

Paula Scher’s impact on politics is evident in her work on Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign, where she designed the iconic «H» logo and branding. Scher’s influence extends to economics and business, where her designs for companies such as Citibank and Microsoft have helped establish their brand identities and created familiarity with consumers. Scher’s innovative use of typography, color, and shape has inspired designers and marketers to take a more creative approach to their work in an era where consumers are bombarded with marketing messages. Scher’s legacy as a designer and thought leader will continue to inspire generations to come.

Scher has received numerous awards and honors for her work, including being named a member of the Art Directors Club Hall of Fame and receiving the National Design Award for Communication Design. She has also been a lecturer and visiting professor at many universities and has taught at the School of Visual Arts in New York City for over 25 years.

Scher’s designs often play with typography and the manipulation of text. In many of her works, she takes a simple, straightforward message and turns it into a visually stunning and memorable design. For example, her design for the book «The Catcher in the Rye» features the title of the book set against a black and white photograph of a city street, creating a powerful and evocative image.

Beyond her work in graphic design, Scher is also a respected educator and writer. She has taught at the School of Visual Arts in New York City and has lectured around the world on the topics of design and typography. She has also written extensively on design and typography, including the book «Make It Bigger,» which offers insights and advice for aspiring designers.

Overall, Paula Scher’s contributions to the field of graphic design are significant and enduring. Her legacy as a designer, educator, and writer will continue to inspire and influence future generations of designers.
In 1994, Paula Scher worked with The Public Theater to update their identity and promotional materials, aiming to reach new audiences and provide innovative shows that appeal to a wider range of viewers. Scher used large, blocky wood type letters, minimal but bold colors, and abstract geometric formations to create a modern street-style feel. The emphasis was on the word «public» to suggest affordability and convenience for the average person. Scher’s work was groundbreaking in its rejection of Swiss modernism and new application of energy and dynamic design. It reshaped the way cultural institutions and theaters approached marketing, directing advertisements at larger crowds and more locations.
Cruz Novillo is a name synonymous with modern graphic design in Spain. Born on January 17, 1936, in Hellín, Albacete, Novillo has become one of the most influential graphic designers of his generation. He is widely recognized for his simple yet memorable designs, characterized by basic shapes and bright colors. Novillo’s designs have become part of Spanish visual culture, having worked on major branding projects for Spanish companies and institutions, and his contribution to politics and economics in the country has cemented his status as a cultural icon.
Novillo’s career began in the 1950s when he worked as a cartoonist for local newspapers. In 1957, he moved to Madrid to study at the School of Fine Arts. By the 1960s, he had established himself as a graphic designer, working for advertising agencies and design studios. In 1965, Novillo co-founded Estudio Cruz Novillo, which became one of the most renowned design agencies in Spain. The agency worked with clients such as the Spanish Post Office, the Spanish National Lottery, and the Spanish Ministry of Culture, designing logos and visual identities for these institutions.

Novillo’s design style is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, using basic shapes and colors to create strong, memorable designs. His work has been described as «minimalist,» «rational,» and «functional.» In addition to his work as a graphic designer, Novillo is also a prolific artist, creating sculptures, paintings, and drawings. His art often incorporates geometric shapes and bright colors, reflecting his design aesthetic.

Novillo’s legacy has influenced generations of designers around the world. He has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the National Design Award in 1997, the Gold Medal for Fine Arts in 2011, and the National Graphic Design Award in 2019. Novillo’s influence extends beyond the realm of graphic design and into the worlds of politics and economics. His logos for political parties and institutions have become synonymous with their ideologies and missions, helping to shape public perceptions and identities.

Novillo’s designs have had a significant impact on the Spanish economy, particularly in the area of branding. His logos and visual identities for major institutions and companies have helped to establish their reputations and identities, contributing to their success and profitability. Novillo’s design for the Spanish Post Office is considered one of the most successful branding campaigns in the country’s history, having transformed a struggling institution into a thriving business.
Cruz Novillo was part of a generation of Spanish designers who helped to shape the country’s visual culture in the 20th century. His contemporaries included designers such as Javier Mariscal, known for his playful, colorful designs, and Alberto Corazón, who worked on major branding projects for Spanish companies and institutions. Together, this group of designers brought a new level of professionalism and creativity to the field of graphic design in Spain, elevating it to the international stage. They drew inspiration from international design movements such as Swiss graphic design and American Pop Art while also incorporating elements of traditional Spanish art and culture.

One of Novillo’s most famous logos is the logo for the Spanish Post Office, which he designed in 1977. The logo features a simple yet striking image of an envelope with a stamp, rendered in bold red and yellow colors. The design is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most successful branding campaigns in Spanish history, helping to transform the struggling institution into a profitable business.
One of Cruz Novillo’s well-known logos is the logo for the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (el PSOE) which was created in 1977. The logo features a fist holding a rose, which is a symbol of socialism and the party’s commitment to social justice. The color red, which represents socialism, is prominently used in the logo. The fist and rose motif has become synonymous with the party and has been used in various forms of party propaganda and campaigns. The logo has undergone minor updates over the years but has remained a powerful and recognizable symbol of the party’s values and mission.
The logo of the Spanish National Police, designed by Cruz Novillo in 1986, is one of his most recognizable creations. It features a stylized eagle perched on a shield, with the shield divided into three sections representing different aspects of the police force. The top section features a castle symbolizing security and protection, the middle section displays the scales of justice representing the force’s commitment to upholding the law, and the bottom section features a stylized letter «P» for Policía.
Get to know the masters
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Get to know the masters

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