The First Things First Manifesto

Definition

The First Things First Manifesto is a declaration published in 1964 that emphasizes the importance of prioritizing meaningful design work over commercialism in graphic design. It calls upon designers to consider their social responsibility and to engage in projects that contribute positively to society rather than merely pursuing profit. This manifesto marked a significant shift in the mindset of designers during a time when industrialization was altering the landscape of graphic design.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The manifesto was written by prominent designers, including Ken Garland, and aimed to challenge the status quo of commercial design practices.
2. It called for a focus on design projects that serve social causes, education, environmental issues, and public welfare, rather than just serving corporate interests.
3. The First Things First Manifesto has been updated several times, with new iterations addressing contemporary design challenges and the role of designers in society.
4. The manifesto played a crucial role in influencing the emergence of socially conscious design movements and has inspired generations of designers to prioritize ethics over profits.
5. In the context of industrialization, the manifesto critiques how mass production and consumer culture can lead to meaningless work that does not engage with deeper societal issues.

Review Questions

• How does the First Things First Manifesto challenge traditional views of graphic design during the industrialization era?
  • The First Things First Manifesto challenges traditional views by advocating for designers to move away from purely commercial pursuits that emerged during industrialization. It encourages designers to prioritize work that addresses societal needs and fosters positive change. This was a departure from a focus on profit-driven projects that dominated the graphic design landscape at the time, suggesting that design should serve a greater purpose.
• In what ways did the First Things First Manifesto influence the perception of commercial art in relation to social responsibility?
  • The First Things First Manifesto significantly influenced how commercial art is perceived by framing it as a practice that can either harm or benefit society. By promoting the idea that designers should consider their social responsibility, it led to a reevaluation of what constitutes valuable work. This shift encouraged many designers to seek out projects that not only generated income but also had a meaningful impact on communities and social issues.
• Evaluate the relevance of the principles outlined in the First Things First Manifesto in today's digital and consumer-driven design landscape.
  • The principles outlined in the First Things First Manifesto remain highly relevant today as designers navigate a digital landscape increasingly dominated by consumerism and instant gratification. With contemporary issues such as climate change, inequality, and misinformation at the forefront, designers are called to reflect on their roles and responsibilities. The manifesto's emphasis on prioritizing socially beneficial projects continues to inspire designers to create work that not only meets market demands but also fosters awareness and drives positive change within society.

Related terms

Commercial Art: A form of visual art created for commercial purposes, often focusing on marketing and advertising rather than artistic expression or social impact.

Social Responsibility: The ethical obligation of individuals and organizations to act in ways that benefit society as a whole, particularly in professions like design.

Modernism: An artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasizing innovation, functionalism, and breaking away from traditional forms and conventions.