Herbert Bayer

Herbert Bayer was a graphic designer, painter, photographer, sculptor, Art Director, environmental & interior designer and architect. Bayer is considered one of the few "total artists" of the twentieth century, because of his vast workings with so many types of media. He produced work which expressed the needs of an industrial age as well as mirroring the advanced tendencies of the avant-garde. Many of his sculptures are very large scale and serve as city landmarks. The "Articulated Wall" located in Denver and "Double Ascension" in Los Angeles are some examples of his work.

Bayer is also credited for completing the first recorded "earthwork" or contemporary environmental art. Titled "Grass Mound", it is a 40 foot diameter mound located at the Aspen Art Institute in Colorado. According to an online source the piece offers a balanced community where livelihood, sports, culture and art can be pursued amidst the beauty of nature. This concept of earthwork influenced many other popular artists. Bayer himself did other pieces that not only provided a visual for the viewer but allowed them to interact with it and nature. his pieces also had some function and would aid with water runoff and erosion.