What's the best way to learn about graphic design history and theory?

1 Why is history and theory important?

Graphic design history and theory can help you gain a broader perspective on the evolution and diversity of the field. You can learn from the achievements and mistakes of past designers, and see how they responded to different cultural, social, and technological contexts. You can also discover the origins and meanings of various graphic design styles, movements, and principles, and how they relate to each other. By knowing the history and theory of graphic design, you can develop a deeper appreciation and critical awareness of the field, and find inspiration and guidance for your own projects.

2 How to learn from books and articles?

One of the most common and accessible ways to learn about graphic design history and theory is to read books and articles on the topic. There are many books and articles that cover different aspects of graphic design history and theory, from general overviews to specific case studies. Some examples are Meggs' History of Graphic Design, Graphic Design: A New History, and The Elements of Graphic Design. You can find these books and articles online, in libraries, or in bookstores. Reading books and articles can help you gain a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of graphic design history and theory, and expose you to different perspectives and opinions.

3 How to learn from online courses and videos?

Another way to learn about graphic design history and theory is to take online courses or watch videos on the topic. There are many online platforms that offer courses and videos on graphic design history and theory, such as Coursera, Skillshare, Udemy, and YouTube. Some examples are Graphic Design History: An Introduction, Graphic Design Theory for Beginners, and The History of Graphic Design. You can find these courses and videos online, and enroll or watch them at your own pace. Taking online courses or watching videos can help you learn from experts and instructors, and see visual examples and demonstrations of graphic design history and theory.

4 How to learn from museums and exhibitions?

A third way to learn about graphic design history and theory is to visit museums and exhibitions that showcase graphic design works and artifacts. There are many museums and exhibitions that display graphic design works and artifacts from different periods and regions, such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Design Museum. You can find these museums and exhibitions online, or in your local area. Visiting museums and exhibitions can help you see graphic design works and artifacts in person, and experience their impact and context.

5 How to learn from podcasts and blogs?

A fourth way to learn about graphic design history and theory is to listen to podcasts or read blogs on the topic. There are many podcasts and blogs that discuss graphic design history and theory, from general discussions to specific interviews. Some examples are 99% Invisible, Design Matters, and The History of Graphic Design. You can find these podcasts and blogs online, and subscribe or follow them regularly. Listening to podcasts or reading blogs can help you hear stories and insights from graphic design professionals and enthusiasts, and stay updated on the latest trends and issues.

6 How to learn from practice and feedback?

A fifth way to learn about graphic design history and theory is to practice and get feedback on your own graphic design projects. You can apply what you have learned from books, articles, courses, videos, museums, exhibitions, podcasts, and blogs to your own graphic design projects, and see how they work in practice. You can also get feedback from other graphic designers, mentors, peers, or clients, and see how they evaluate your projects based on graphic design history and theory. Practicing and getting feedback can help you improve your graphic design skills, and learn from your own experience and mistakes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?