Answering Questions about Design

When did graphic design become an important profession?
Late in the 19th century, when the aesthetic dimension of the mass media was separated from its production. The industrial revolution played a large role in this, because in these highly-populated cities, competition formed for companies to market their products, and a focus was put on visual aspects, forming the field of graphic design.

What is one noteworthy style of design and the era when it was prevalent?

Art Nouveau came to be in the late 1800's in an attempt to "beautify" the industrial cities in Europe. This style was used in advertisements, posters, and promotional items.  They used 'new' techniques to promote the 'new' urban life. The most recognizable features of art nouveau pieces is the flowing fonts used, and the confident women used to glorify the subject.  Elements of art nouveau were a heavy inspiration for the concert poster explosion of the 60's, and some elements are still used in advertising and design today.

What's an example of why graphic design so important?

When World War I broke out in 1914, all of the countries involved needed ways to gain support from citizens.  This is when poster production really took off, in the form of propoganda posters.  War propaganda was a huge part of the graphic design industry at this time.  A lot of artists turned their focus from decorative art nouveau pieces to straight forward messages in the form of war posters.  Propaganda,  and in general the mass spreading of messages through visual art is a reason why graphic design has been important throughout history.

Who invented graphic design?
No answer in the book, I'm guessing no certain person invented the field, it was a kind of culmination of new attitudes and creativity that formed the field.

Graphic Design: A New History
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