American Art Deco: An Illustrated Survey FROM THE PUBLISHER
One of the most popular forms of twentieth-century design, the Art Deco style dominated the decorative arts in the 1920s and 30s. Championed by progressive architects and inspired by such diverse influences as the industrial age and Native American art, it became a form of artistic self-expression for nearly three decades. This volume includes scores of photographs and important articles that describe the aesthetics of this distinctive style. An introduction by architectural critic Lewis Mumford is followed by commentaries by such notables as Frank Lloyd Wright on design principles; theatrical and industrial designer Norman Bel Geddes on outfitting business interiors; and Edward Steichen on commercial photography. A fascinating glimpse of an exciting and innovative period in the history of American design, this book will appeal to a wide audience -- from interior decorators and graphic artists to students of art and lovers of the Art Deco style.
SYNOPSIS
Dover's unabridged reprint revives a work originally published in 1931, under the title Annual of American Design 1931 by the American Union of Decorative Artists and Craftsmen (Ives Washburn). It includes a dozen brief essays by the likes of Lewis Mumford, on culture and machine art; Frank Lloyd Wright, on principles of design; Norman Bel Geddes, on business interiors; and Edward Steichen, on commercial photography. Illustrated, in stark b&w, with images that run the gamut from advertising photographs to designs for fabrics and book covers. Oversize: 8.75x11.75". Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR