Cultural factors encompass the social behaviour and norms found in human societies, as well as the knowledge, beliefs arts, laws, customs and habits of the individuals in these groups.
Cultural Factors:
Trends and fashions
Cultural heritage and traditions
Social norms and values
Language and communication
Local customs and practices
Cultural and social factors are both important considerations that influence design decisions, in all fields of design. These two factors are closely related and often interconnected and they have distinct characteristics and implications for design. While cultural factors refer to the characteristics of cultures in society, social factors refer to the ways people interact with each other and their environment.
CULTURAL CONTEXT
Cultural factors require designers to consider the context in which their designs will be used. This includes understanding the cultural context of the location, the habits and behaviours of the intended users, and the purpose of the design to ensure that it aligns with particular cultural values and needs. In today's globalised world, cultural influences can come from various sources and may blend or clash. Designers must navigate this complexity while creating designs that are culturally sensitive and appropriate for diverse audiences.
AESTHETICS, SYMBOLISM, HERITAGE AND TRADITION
Cultural aesthetics play a significant role in design decisions. Different cultures may have varying preferences for colours, shapes, patterns, and symbols. Designers need to consider cultural aesthetics to create designs that resonate with and are meaningful to the intended audience. Cultural factors also refer to historical and traditional elements that are deeply rooted in a society's heritage. Design decisions may need to respect or integrate these elements to reflect the cultural identity and maintain a sense of continuity.
Design in Western cultures shares a history that sits parallel with the histories of other visual and performing arts. Stylistic trends within the visual arts, music, literature, fashion and theatre are driven by the day's social, cultural and political climate. New movements seem to emerge in waves that bring change to the entire art world almost simultaneously. For example, you may be familiar with the painting style of 'Impressionism' beginning in Paris in the late 1800s, but did you know that this style swept across the arts and includes impressionist music? You may also not be aware that the artistic style of Surrealism, with its chief painters Dali and Magritte, actually began with Surrealist literature. Contemporary designers often have interests in the broader arts and follow and are informed by trends in fashion and news, social and entertainment media. A quick examination of design history will reveal contemporary connections with the visual arts of the day. You are encouraged to make an examination of design history to understand its relationship with the visual arts and how each is able to shape the styles and practices of the other.
Designs from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Asian, African and Middle Eastern cultures are often characterised by aesthetic qualities that refer to different cultural traditions and preferences. You are reminded that conceptions of good design and aesthetic qualities are often specific to the cultures in which they are found.
RELIGION
Religion involves beliefs, rituals, practices, and values that guide individuals' spiritual and moral lives. It is deeply rooted in culture and influences how people perceive the world, make decisions, and interact with others. Religion is both a cultural and social factor, as it is a fundamental aspect of cultural identity and often plays a significant role in social cohesion, group dynamics, and community structures. Religious beliefs and values influence peoples' practices regarding, for example, appropriate dress standards and depictions of people. Designers must be mindful of culturally appropriate practices.
CELEBRATE OR CRITIQUE
Visual communications can celebrate or critique cultural beliefs. Advertising from the Fifties often depicts men and women in ways that support traditional gender roles and family values. Conversely, when we examine Postmodern art and Punk music record covers from the Seventies, it is evident that they were critical of their mainstream culture.
TASK 3.1 DESCRIBE CULTURE #1
Investigate and describe the term ‘culture’. Identify two cultural groups to which you belong.
TASK 3.2 DESCRIBE CULTURE #2
Describe three aspects of the culture of Lakeview Secondary College.
TASK 3.3 CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE
Imagine Lakeview is planning a rock music lunchtime concert. You have been given the job of designing a poster to promote the event. Suggest two ways (images, words, etc.) you could make the poster appropriate for our school culture and two ways you could make the poster more engaging but inappropriate for the school context. Illustrate your ideas in line drawings.