After Class 2/27

Today in class we talked about the Victorian Era.

Amanda presented her knowledge on the era, which was mainly during the span of Queen Alexandrina Victoria’s rule until her death, 1837-1901. The Queen was crowned at the age of 18, and her rule showed the markings of her naïve and romantic thoughts. The values of the time period were sentiment, beauty, nostalgia and romance. Art and graphic design showed these values through the use of young ladies, puppies, children, flowers and such imagery; design pieces were filled in every small spot with flourishes or small floral design. Typefaces were embellished and filigreed, resulting in poor legibility. More fat faces were used, and these were mixed and matched in all sizes on posters. The graphic design movement of Mondrain and Cole in the late 19th century helped to separate graphic design from fine art. Cultures also became mixed, with the influence of Spain, Israel and Chine impacting the art, architecture, and design of the time.

I was really inspired by the typography of the Victorian posters; though the posters are overwhelming at times, I like that there is so much to look at and examine. I think they could even be effective today as they are so unlike the design practices we use now that they would certainly be eye-catching.