A Modern Lesson from the Constructivist
Constructivism was not about art; it was a socially-aware utilitarian design solution. Constructivist saw themselves as an integral part of society. Catalysts for social growth. They worked in all mediums from advertising to art and theater, using any and all methods to deliver the message to the masses. Alexander Rodchenko, one of the founders, used Constructivism to create ads informing of new government policies and encouraging people to join unions and further their education. In a society with high illiteracy, graphic design was able to speak to those who were otherwise secluded from society. It was able to unify. This was at the time of the Russian Revolution when the changes in government, as we now know, came to change the world.
In our country we see a change in government every four years. A small revolution in itself. Currently we are in the middle of multiple revolutions; A president different from any before, an economy being restructured, and health-care reform at the least. New policies are going in place that will directly affect us all for a long time to come.
The executive branch has taken a previously unseen initiative for an open-dialog with the people it is affecting. Like a Constructivist, President Obama uses any and all mediums available; a weekly online video address, blog, etc. However much of what happens in Washington, still stays in Washington. With mainstream media often missing the point, the potential for graphic design in our government is as great as it has ever been.
We've all seen the Constructivist style in modern times with Saks Fifth Avenues new campaign, but...
... what potential do the ideals of Constructivism have to shape the future of our nation? What have you done this year that benefits society, mankind, and the planet?
These are questions that we designers should ask ourselves every year.
NOTE: In no way do I mean to imply that designers are falling short. In fact I believe quite the opposite. I see designers everywhere with a passion to make this world better. To see it for yourself go to, livingprinciples.net or aiga.org or if you want to read more, read this article,Ā Why design?
