Category Review: History of Design The history of design is a fascinating field that explores the evolution of artistic styles and techniques over time. This category contains several books that delve into different aspects of this subject matter, ranging from decorative arts to fashion and architecture. Here are my reviews for each book in this category: 1. History of Design: Decorative Arts and Material Culture, 1400–2000 by Sheila Hicks (Bard Graduate Centre for Studies in the Decorative Arts, Design & Culture) This comprehensive book covers a wide range of decorative arts and material culture from the 15th century to the present day. The author provides detailed information on various artistic styles and techniques used in different cultures around the world. She also discusses how these art forms have influenced each other over time, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of design. 2. Design and the Decorative Arts: Britain 1500-1900 by Victoria and Albert Museum Studies (V&A Publishing) This book focuses specifically on British decorative arts from the Tudor period to the early 20th century. The author provides a detailed analysis of various artistic styles, techniques, and materials used in different periods. She also discusses how these art forms have influenced each other over time, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of design in Britain. 3. L'Art De Vivre : Decorative Arts and Design in France 1789-1989 by Alain Soudier (Prestel Publishing) This book provides a comprehensive overview of French decorative arts from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century. The author covers various artistic styles, techniques, and materials used in different periods, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Postmodernism. He also discusses how these art forms have influenced each other over time, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of design in France. 4. Design and the Decorative Arts: Tudor and Stuart Britain 1500-1714 by David Pye (V&A Publishing) This book focuses specifically on British decorative arts from the Tudor period to the early 18th century. The author provides a detailed analysis of various artistic styles, techniques, and materials used in different periods. He also discusses how these art forms have influenced each other over time, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of design during this specific period in British history. 5. The Art of Stone Painting: 30 Designs to Spark Your Creativity by Jane Latham (Batsford) This book provides a comprehensive guide to stone painting techniques and designs. It covers various styles, materials, and tools used in different periods, including traditional and contemporary methods. The author also includes step-by-step instructions for creating your own stone paintings, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in this artistic technique. 6. Frank Lloyd Wright: The Rooms: Interiors and Decorative Arts by David A. Brown (Rizzoli) This book provides a detailed analysis of the interior design and decorative arts used in Frank Lloyd Wright's buildings. It covers various styles, materials, and techniques used in different periods, including Art Nouveau, Prairie School, and Organic Architecture. The author also includes photographs and plans for many of Wright's most famous buildings, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in his work. 7. Georg Jensen Jewelry (Published in Association with the Bard Graduate Centre for Studies in the Decorative Arts, Design & Culture) by Michael Singer-Sargent and Robert Mintz (Thames & Hudson World of Art) This book provides a comprehensive overview of Georg Jensen's jewelry designs. It covers various styles, materials, and techniques used in different periods, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernism. The author also includes biographical information about the artist and his family, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in this famous Danish designer. 8. Marimekko: Fabrics, Fashion, Architecture (Bard Graduate Centre for Studies in the Decorative Arts, Design & Culture) by Pirkko Kemppainen and Riitta Laakso (Thames & Hudson World of Art) This book provides a comprehensive overview of Marimekko's fabrics, fashion designs, and architecture. It covers various styles, materials, and techniques used in different periods, including traditional Finnish textiles and modern Scandinavian design. The author also includes biographical information about the company's founders and their family, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in this famous Finnish brand. 9. Greco Disco: The Art and Design of Luke Edward Hall by Luke Edward Hall (Prestel Publishing) This book provides a comprehensive overview of Luke Edward Hall's art and design work. It covers various styles, materials, and techniques used in different periods, including his signature neon-lit installations and colorful paintings. The author also includes biographical information about the artist and his background, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in this up-and-coming British designer. In conclusion, this category contains a diverse range of books that explore various aspects of design history. Whether you are interested in decorative arts, fashion, architecture, or any other aspect of design, there is something here for everyone. Each book provides detailed information on different artistic styles and techniques used in different cultures around the world over time.