Abstract
The contributions of female graphic designers throughout history often remain overshadowed by a gendered bias that prioritizes male achievements, despite the visionary work and outstanding legacy of women in the field. This study explores women’s role throughout history, from the pre-industrial to the present era, uncovering how social barriers, institutional limitations, and cultural constructs undermined and limited women’s participation and recognition in a male-dominated field. Through case studies of overlooked female figures like Cipe Pineles and Paula Scher and by the examination of sources that defy the established canon, this paper demonstrates that, despite the lack of visibility for female designers’ work, women have played a crucial role in shaping today’s design landscape through indirect, collaborative, and partnership-driven pathways. The analysis concludes by considering how, even with the rise of modern movements that intend to promote inclusivity and gender equality, a gendered bias remains rooted in both the design industry and academic settings.
Presenters
Angela Velasquez GarciaStudent, MFA in Graphic Design, Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
DESIGN CANON, GENDER EQUALITY, GENDER BIAS, DESIGN HISTORY, FEMALE DESIGNERS
