Past forward: a study on Indian design language

Abstract

Past Forward: A Study on Indian Design Language intends to analyse the historical trajectory and development of Indian Graphic Design from pre-colonial to post-colonial India to develop a concrete understanding on the principles of Indian design applied during these periods. Focusing on printed matter, the study hopes to trace how the introduction of Eurocentric Design by colonial rule impacted the development of Indian Graphic Design.

This study will be carried out by analysing and examining the historical arts and crafts culture that was established in India while also examining their influence on archival adverts with the rise in the concept of design. The outcome of this study intends to re-imagine current adverts to include more Indian design heritage by using today’s modern application processes.

As an Indian national who lived abroad, I hope to understand the roots of my graphic design heritage in the hopes that I can learn how to apply them more critically in my own practice.