On globalization of design: locating Chinese names in 'Communication Arts' magazine

Globalization is one of today's hottest buzzwords. As globalization currently stands, the primary flow of influence is still mainly from European and North American countries to Asia and the rest of the world. Some cultural studies scholars are, however, optimistic about the emerging 'Japanization of the West' (Befu, 2003), which may eventually balance Western dominance with widespread Asian influence. This paper focuses on visual communication design from the Greater China Region created over the past decade, when China's potential as a future world power became apparent. Samples for this study will be taken from design annuals of Communication Arts magazine dating from 1997 to 2006. Works published by designers with Chinese names, regardless of area, are located and evaluated to uncover the multiple cultural design identities, and globalization of modern design issues, in Chinese design and designers from locales including Hong Kong, China and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese