Dietmar Winkler's Lecture at NU

Dietmar Winkler, a graphics and design practitioner, appeared as a guest lecturer at Northeastern University on January 16th, 2007. The focus of the lecture revolved around the idea that design is all around us. Art and design have been an integral part of humanity and vital to different cultures. However, as different cultures combine certain aspects of design, and the meanings understood behind the designs can be lost.

Whether we are graphic designers, painters, sculptures, photographers, or writers, we are all affected by the combination of cultures. Consequentially, the loss of meanings from particular cultures represents a loss too all members of humanity. It is a loss to all because design, and its meaning are built upon each other over time though different cultures. However, once the culture is lost, all the socially understood meanings are lost with it.

Winkler opened students' eyes to the larger picture around themselves. It is not enough to simply make brochures, and advertisements in order to live a comfortable life. Winkler wanted students to look beyond the materialistic means behind design. Instead, Winkler wanted students to expand their minds and think of what design can do to make the world a better place.

A day after the lecture, an article about Dietmar Winkler's lecture appeared in The Northeastern News. The article provides more information about Winkler's history as a graphic designer, as well as offers students thoughts and opinions.

Globalization affects design - News