Subject
Design Books
Best books
Walter Crane
The Bases of Design
"The Bases of Design" by Walter Crane is a comprehensive guide on the principles of design written in the late 19th century. This work is not merely a technical manual but a philosophical exploration of how various arts of design intertwine, stressing the importance of understanding design within the context of architecture and utility. Crane emphasizes the need for unity in design, particularly as the divisions among art forms become more pronounced due to commercial competition. The opening portion of the book sets the stage for a deeper investigation into the nature of design, rooted in architecture as "the queen and mother of all the arts." Crane outlines the complexity and variety encompassed in the study of design, which he intends to approach by exploring the origins, influences, and characteristics of diverse artistic forms. He begins with foundational questions regarding the nature of designs, how they develop in relation to practical needs, and their connections to architectural forms, setting a groundwork that suggests future discussions will delve into various aspects of design history, culture, and practice.
Denman Waldo Ross
A theory of pure design : $b harmony, balance, rhythm
"A Theory of Pure Design: Harmony, Balance, Rhythm" by Denman Waldo Ross is a scholarly treatise on the principles underlying design in fine arts, written in the early 20th century. Ross, an educator at Harvard University, seeks to clarify and articulate the often intangible concepts of art through definitions and classifications, aiming to bridge artistic expression with scientific understanding. The work is focused on elucidating how elements such as harmony, balance, and rhythm contribute to the overall structure of works of art, and how these principles can be understood and applied. The opening of the text sets the stage for Ross's theoretical approach to design, emphasizing the need to define the terms and principles that govern artistic practice. He differentiates between "Pure Design," which focuses on achieving order and beauty for their own sake, and "Representation," which serves to express meanings and truths through art. Ross introduces the foundational concepts of order in design, noting that harmony, balance, and rhythm are essential for creating appealing aesthetic experiences. The introduction reinforces that while art may seem purely subjective, it is indeed built upon recognizable and definable patterns that can be analyzed, understood, and discussed within a scientific framework.
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