Design in Detail: Gradient

Contents:

• Background: Colored Stain on Glass, Fabric, and Paper
• Rainbow Print: Victorian Advertising, Banknotes, and Hippies
• Airbrushing: Pioneers of Photo Retouching, Art Deco, and Graffiti Artists
• From Kitsch to Minimalism: The Evolution of Gradients in the Digital Age
• Gradients in Contemporary Art and Design

Nature offers many examples of smooth transitions between colors. We can observe this phenomenon in the hues of sunrise and sunset, the veins of autumn leaves, and the petals of exotic flowers. Color gradients, as an effect, have fascinated people throughout history. Many have sought ways to reproduce this effect on various surfaces. In this column, I will discuss the history of gradients and how they became popular in design and art. By exploring its development, we'll see how gradients were used to create visual harmony and depth, lending uniqueness and expressiveness to works of art and design.

Background: Colored Staining on Glass, Fabric, and Paper

Technologies for producing polychrome glassware have been known since ancient Egypt. The process of fusing multicolored blanks created exquisite color transitions. Glass vessels with colored gradients, preserved since the time of the Roman Empire, have a contemporary and modern look. Studying these ancient techniques can offer new ideas for modern designers and artists seeking to create unique glass pieces.

Knot dyeing is one of the oldest methods of creating patterns on fabric. To achieve this, pieces of fabric are tied, stitched, folded, or compressed, resulting in uneven dyeing and patterns with blurred edges. In Japan, this method is called "shibori" (or shibori), and in ancient India, it was known as "bandana." In European culture, a variation of this dyeing, called "tie-dye," became popular in the 1960s thanks to the hippie movement, who used readily available techniques to brightly decorate their clothing. Knot dyeing continues to be relevant and in demand in modern textile design, bringing uniqueness and individuality to each product.

Marbling, also known as ebru, is a unique painting technique in which paints or inks are applied to the surface of water or a special liquid composition. The design is then transferred to a hard surface, such as paper, wood, ceramics, or leather. This technique creates stunning patterns thanks to differences in the chemical composition of the paints, which causes them to flow across the surface of the water. Ebru is not only an art form but also a way to express creativity, creating unique and unrepeatable works.

The techniques used for book decoration have deep roots in history. They were known in ancient China, Japan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Persia, and Turkey. Beginning in the 17th century, these methods began to spread rapidly throughout Europe, where they were used for book decoration until the late 19th century. The use of these techniques not only enriched the visual perception of works, but also contributed to the development of book culture in different regions of the world.

Rainbow Printing: Victorian Advertising, Banknotes, and Hippies

Traditional printing used a separate plate for each color, which significantly increased the cost of the process. Victorian-era printers sought ways to reduce production costs while maintaining the vibrancy and appeal of their products, especially advertising posters. This resulted in the development of rainbow printing, also known as split fountain printing. This method allowed for the combination of multiple colors in a single impression, making printing more cost-effective and visually vibrant. Rainbow printing became popular due to its ability to create striking and eye-catching images, significantly changing the approach to advertising design. Printing using multiple colors simultaneously was carried out from a single inkwell and a single printing plate. Using automatic rollers or a hand-operated scraper, the colors were mixed during the printing process, creating smooth color transitions. This innovation led to the emergence of bright and colorful advertising with gradient background fills and letterforms in Europe and the United States. This approach became the basis for a unique visual design that attracted attention and made advertising materials stand out from the competition.

In 1890, in Russia Ivan Orlov, a prominent member of the Russian Empire, developed a unique "rainbow" (or "iris") printing technology, which served as an additional means of protecting banknotes and securities from counterfeiting. In 1892, this technology was presented at a European forum of bank employees and subsequently patented. In 1894, rainbow printing was first used in Russia on 25-ruble banknotes, marking an important step in the development of banknote security systems.

In the 1960s, rainbow printing gained popularity again, which was associated with the hippie culture and their psychedelic posters and magazines. Bright and creative stylizations in the spirit of Victorian advertising were created by the famous French book artist Robert Massin, who became a symbol of this time. His works reflected ideals of freedom and self-expression, which contributed to the spread of rainbow printing as an important element of the visual culture of the era.

Airbrushing: Photo Retouching Pioneers, Art Deco and Graffiti Artists

Smooth color transitions can be achieved by spraying paint under air pressure. For example, pigment can be blown through a tube, which can create interesting effects. The oldest examples of this art, dating back between 13,000 and 9,500 years, are found on the walls of the Cueva de las Manos cave in southern Argentina. These images are painted in different colors, sprayed around "stencils" in the shape of hands. Spray painting techniques open up new horizons for artists, allowing them to create unique artwork with dynamic colors and textures.

The airbrush, a professional tool for spraying liquid and powder pigments, was invented after the advent of photography and was originally used for photo retouching. The first patent for the device was issued in 1876 to the American Francis Edgar Stanley, but at that time it did not have a continuous supply of compressed air. In 1878, Abner Peeler equipped the airbrush with a hand compressor, which significantly improved its functionality. Since then, the airbrush has undergone numerous improvements, allowing it to occupy an important place in various fields, such as painting, cosmetology, and airbrush printing.

Soon, the new device attracted the attention of artists and commercial illustrators who were looking for ways to create photorealistic, three-dimensional images with smooth color transitions. This innovative brushless painting technique also attracted the interest of avant-garde artists seeking to experiment in art.

In 1919, Man Ray, one of the founders of Dadaism, created a series of surrealist works known as aerograms using an airbrush. These works were criticized by art critics of the time, who believed they degraded the status of painting. However, the airbrush only gained recognition in contemporary art in the 1960s, when it began to be actively used by pop artists. The airbrush became an important tool for creating vivid and expressive images, which contributed to its popularity and influence on the further development of artistic movements.

Commercial Art Deco illustrators used the airbrush, which allowed them to create a unique visual language. They began to integrate geometric volumetric elements into the stylized flat forms of the early avant-garde, which brought new depth and dynamism to their work. This approach became a characteristic feature of Art Deco, combining elegance with modern trends.

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The design of the 1930s and 1940s was an important stage in the development of visual culture. This period is characterized by a rapid transition from archaic styles to modern trends, reflecting changes in society, technology, and cultural values. Art Deco and Functionalism flourished during this time. Art Deco, with its bright colors, geometric shapes, and luxurious materials, embodied the optimism and glamour of the era. Functionalism, in turn, emphasized practicality and simplicity, emphasizing the utility and accessibility of design.

The 1930s also saw a growing interest in mass production, which contributed to the proliferation of affordable and functional furniture. Designers began experimenting with new materials such as plywood and aluminum, opening up new horizons for creativity. This period laid the foundation for the creation of such famous brands as Bauhaus, which united art and industry, becoming an important center for new ideas in design.

In the 1940s, influenced by World War II, design underwent a transformation, focusing on rationality and economy. Faced with a lack of resources, designers sought innovative solutions, adapting materials and technologies to create functional objects. This period laid the foundation for the further development of design in the post-war decades.

Thus, the 1930s and 1940s became key to the formation of modern design, defining its main directions and principles that continue to influence contemporary visual culture.

A striking example is the work of the Parisian artist Adolphe-Jean-Marie Mouron, known under the pseudonym A. M. Cassandre. Its airbrushed details create the effect of the sleek bow of the transatlantic turbo-electric liner Normandie emerging majestically from an advertising poster. These works of art not only attract attention, but also highlight the artist's mastery of volumetric forms and dynamic movement, making them outstanding examples of 20th-century advertising design.

Airbrushing was also used to decorate fabrics. Lyudmila, Vladimir Mayakovsky's older sister, became the first woman to head an industrial airbrush workshop. Her fabric samples, dyed using a unique patented technique, were presented at the 1925 Paris Exhibition and are still relevant today. Airbrushing not only imparts aesthetic value to fabrics but also allows for the creation of unique design solutions that can complement any interior or clothing style. By the 1930s, the airbrush had found widespread use in industrial production, particularly for applying designs to automobiles. This tool became an essential element in the vehicle decoration process. Gradually, airbrushing as a method for decorating personal cars, motorcycles, and even airplanes developed into a distinct medium, which remains popular in popular culture to this day. Contemporary artists and designers continue to use airbrushing to create unique and individual styles, making this art form relevant and in demand.

Aerosol paint cans became an important invention after their creation in the United States in 1949, originally intended for applying aluminum paint to automobile parts. By the late 1970s, they gained popularity among graffiti artists, becoming the primary tool for creating unique visual art. This new style featured smooth color transitions and dark, soft-edged outlines, opening up new horizons for self-expression in the urban environment. Aerosol sprays revolutionized street art, allowing artists to quickly and efficiently realize their ideas.

From Kitsch to Minimalism: The Evolution of Gradients in the Digital Age

Modern computer graphics and digital printing technologies have greatly simplified the process of creating gradients. With just one click, you can add drop shadows, control the degree of blurring of object edges, and adjust the intensity of the transition between colors. These methods gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s and continue to be actively used in design. Effective use of gradients allows you to create visually appealing images and improve the overall aesthetics of graphic projects.

A striking example is Advertising for the Graphic Arts Message '92 exhibition and educational events held in Tokyo. The design was created by Neville Brody, one of the leading masters of computer graphics, who used his Blur font, developed in 1992. This project demonstrates an innovative approach to graphic design and the influence of modern technology on visual arts.

Reading is an integral part of our lives. It enriches our minds, broadens our horizons, and helps develop critical thinking. In today's world, where information is available in vast quantities, it's important to choose quality sources and focus on both entertaining and educational materials. Regularly reading books, articles, and research contributes to personal and professional growth. Regardless of genre, every page you read brings new knowledge and ideas. Use your time wisely and discover the world of literature.

Neville Brody is an outstanding graphic designer and typographer who has left a significant mark on the world of visual arts. His work is distinguished by its innovative approach and unique style. Let's look at five famous projects by Neville Brody that embody his talent and influence on modern design.

The first significant project is the design for "The Face" magazine, which became iconic in the 1980s. Brody brought fresh ideas to typography and layout, making the magazine an icon of youth culture.

The second project was the design of the Arcadia typeface, created for use in printing and digital media. This typeface is distinguished by its original forms and high legibility, which made it popular among designers and typographers.

The third important project was the creation of a visual identity for the music label Warp Records. Brody designed unique album covers that not only reflected the musical direction but also became self-sufficient art objects.

The fourth project is considered to be work on the interface design for BBC Online. Brody applied his innovative ideas to improve the user experience and make content more accessible to a wider audience.

The fifth significant project is his participation in the creation of the Face typeface, which has become a symbol of postmodern design. This typeface is distinguished by its eclectic forms and has become the basis for many new typographic solutions.

Neville Brody's work continues to inspire designers around the world, and his projects remain a shining example of how design can influence culture and society.

At that time, computer graphics were in their infancy, and some designers overused effects such as imitation volume, neon glow, and shiny metallic textures with sharp white highlights. Today, such techniques are perceived as kitsch and are mainly used to create retro stylizations. Modern designers strive for more sophisticated and minimalist solutions, which makes the use of such effects in the past interesting, but outdated.

Over time, professionals have begun to approach the use of gradients more cautiously. The history of logo redesigns of popular brands, which gradually abandoned excessive volume and shine, as well as the simplification of icons and graphical interfaces, clearly demonstrates this trend. Simplification of visual elements has become a key direction in design, emphasizing functionality and minimalism. This allows brands to create more modern and memorable images that are better perceived by users.

Gradient in contemporary art and

In the 20th and 21st centuries, color became a fundamental and independent tool of artistic expression for many artists. One of the central goals of avant-garde artists was to convey the vibrations and ephemerality of color, as well as its interaction with light. Gradient plays a key role, adding movement, volume, and additional expressiveness to their works. A striking example of this is Olga Rozanova's painting "Green Stripe" (1917), which was significantly ahead of its time and exemplifies an innovative approach to the use of color.

Rozanova in her In color research, she sought to move away from traditional painting materials, turning to multimedia—screens, spotlights, and light manipulation. The relevance of such ideas is confirmed by the history of video art. An example of this is the "Light-Space Modulator" (1922–1930) by the Hungarian artist László Moholy-Nagy, which became a fundamental work in the field of light art. His ideas were continued in the experimental lighting installations of Bulat Galeev and the Prometheus Research Institute team in the 1960s–1980s, demonstrating the significant influence of multimedia technologies on contemporary art.

The next stage in the development of light art is associated with the works of minimalists of the 1960s and 1970s. One of the key trends of this period was the American Light and Space movement, which included such outstanding artists as James Turrell, John McCracken, Larry Bell, and Robert Irwin. Larry Bell, as an artist and sculptor, used gradients not only in lithographs and mixed media, but also in his colored glass cubic sculptures. These works are unique in that they refract light in different ways, creating a special atmosphere and transforming the space around them. The minimalism of this period emphasizes the interplay of light and color, making it a milestone in the history of modern art.

Modern art has a significant influence on design, as demonstrated by the work of Hermans Ermichs, a Latvian designer based in Amsterdam. He creates unique furniture pieces and entire interiors using transparent glass with gradient films in various shades. Ermich masterfully plays with the perception of color, taking into account changes in lighting, resulting in striking visual solutions. His works are not only functional, but also become true works of art, capable of transforming any space.

Gradients play an important role in contemporary fashion. Smooth color transitions in clothing are achieved not only through traditional fabric dyeing methods, but also through the use of different colored threads, layering translucent materials, digital printing, and even integrating LED light elements into products. These techniques create unique visual effects that attract attention and highlight individual style. Gradients are becoming an integral part of design solutions, allowing for experimentation with color and form.

A current trend in product and fashion design is to create collections that exist primarily in digital format, with limited physical implementation. A striking example of this is the project "Caring for Yourself, Caring for the World" (2021) by Diana Wallinger, founder of DNWLLNGR studio. This project presents a series of inspiring and imaginative digital models, as well as a single physical object—a white pantsuit, colored in life-affirming gradations of green and pink. This approach not only reflects current fashion trends but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable design and caring for the world.

Gradients have a long history in human visual and material culture, dating back to ancient times. They can be both contrasting and nuanced, static or dynamic, used to fill backgrounds and objects, as well as to tone illustrations or photographs. Gradients can be combined with textures or used alone. As some gradients go out of fashion, new ones take their place. This constant renewal makes gradients an essential element of modern design, allowing you to create visually appealing and dynamic compositions.

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Read also:

• Gradients: a big overview
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• Special project: what color can do