Final answer:
In the 1950s, the graphic design profession expanded as technological advances and consumer culture grew, emphasizing the necessity for effective advertisements and brand recognition. Graphic designers became critical in crafting logos and visuals that conveyed specific messages to targeted audiences, differentiating graphic design as a profession distinct from traditional fine arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The graphic design profession underwent significant changes in the 1950s. As the world entered a period of post-war prosperity, technological advances and the boom in consumer culture led to an increase in the demand for advertisements and branding. During this time, graphic designers became invaluable for creating compelling visuals that could attract attention and convey messages effectively.
Beginning with the first use of movable type in the 15th century, graphic design has been closely tied to advancements in technology and societal shifts. The 1950s saw the rise of television and changes in print advertising, emphasizing the need for graphic images and brand logos. Graphic designers rose to the challenge, crafting logos that not only represented the identity of companies but also had to be immediately recognizable and reflect the company's character. The proliferation of products during the Industrial Revolution had set the stage for the necessity of effective graphic design in marketing and communication.
Unlike fine arts, where the interpretation is often subjective, graphic design aims to send a precise message to a specific audience. This professional demand led to the delineation of graphic design as distinct from fine arts. Meanwhile, the concept of commercial art evolved as the distinction between art for a client (commercial) and art for the artist's own pleasure became less meaningful.
The graphic arts also played a crucial role in societal dialogue. Besides contributing to commercial activities, graphic arts became a medium for satirical observations and political commentary in regions undergoing significant social changes, evidenced by the Latin American graphic arts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The 1950s were a pivotal decade for graphic design, marking its transformation from a craft closely related to printmaking and illustration to an essential and professional part of the advertising and branding industries. This shift represented a broader movement from traditional art forms to dynamic, message-based visuals that catered to an emerging consumer-driven society.