Twentieth Century Design: One-Day Course

The course will take place on Saturday 12 April from 9:30am–4pm.

Lunch will be provided via a voucher to be redeemed onsite at Gallery Kitchen or Tea Room.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Gain an introductory understanding of the social and cultural contexts that informed some of the major stylistic developments in furniture and object design in the first half of the twentieth century including Art Nouveau, the Vienna Secession and the Bauhaus school
• Develop a basic knowledge of some of the material and technological innovations that have informed developments in furniture and object design in the second half of the twentieth century.
• Identify and discuss a selection of designers in the NGV Collection who were active and influential during the twentieth century including Frank Lloyd Wright, Marion Mahony, Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi and Marc Newson, among others.
• Describe and analyse the form, function, materials and techniques used by a selection of designers of the twentieth century and consider their ongoing influence on contemporary design.
• Discuss the factors which influence and inform design including social, cultural and environmental considerations.

This course introduces the social and cultural contexts that shaped major stylistic developments of the early twentieth century, from Art Nouveau and the Vienna Secession to the progressive Bauhaus school and key figures such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Marion Mahony.

Moving into the post-war decades, the course will explore the evolution of materials and technological innovation that defined mid-century design. Introducing leading designers of the era, including Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and Isamu Noguchi, the course concludes with an exploration of the radical shifts in design thinking of the 1980s and 1990s.

This immersive one-day program offers an engaging introduction to the forces that have shaped contemporary furniture and object design, making it an ideal starting point for those looking to deepen their appreciation of design history.

$220 Member / $250 Non-Member / $235 Concession, Student & Educator
+ $5.50 Booking Fee

Enrol in more than one course to receive a 10% discount. To access the discounted enrolment, email artschool@ngv.vic.gov.au

NGV Members, educators and students receive discounted enrolment to all NGV Art School courses.

Innovation, Influence & Legacy: Twentieth Century Design offers an inspiring and creative professional learning opportunity for teachers of all levels and subjects. Innovation, Influence & Legacy: Twentieth Century Design meets the following AITSL standards:

A certificate of professional learning is available on request.