Design research unit, 1942-72
By: Michelle Cotton
Contributors: Cubitt Gallery and Studios
Publisher: Koenig Books
Published: 2011
Place of publication: [Köln]
Language: eng
Number of pages: 127
ISBN-13: 9783863350406
Subjects: Exhibitions; History; Design; Art and design; Industrial design; Design Research Unit (Firm)
Description: The Design Research Unit, formed in 1942 in London was the first consultancy that stimulated artists and designers of various disciplines to work together on schemes of design that would affect society as a whole. It was the first integrated design practice in Britain, combining architecture, graphic design, industrial and engineering design and is the oldest industrial design office in Europe. This publication detailing the research and a programme of talks by artists, designers and critics will bring contemporary perspectives to this history. The project refers to a broader discourse on the subject of design within current art practice, addressing the relevance of the Unit's legacy to practitioners and audiences today.
Notes: Published on the occasion of the exhibition held at Cubitt Gallery, London, Sept. 18-Oct. 24, 2010 which travelled to six other venues through Dec. 2011.

Includes bibliographical references and index.
Table of contents: title: Practical idealists : the founders of the Design Research Unit, 1942 --; title: Ministry of Information, 1942-44 --; title: Art & Industry : Naum Gabo & Jowett Cars Ltd., 1943-46 --; title: Festival of Britain, 1951 --; title: Watneys, 1956-70 --; title: British Rail, 1963-66 --; title: The new heraldry, 1966-70's.