Streamline Moderne, an evolution of Art Deco from the 1930s, embraced sleek, aerodynamic forms inspired by modern transport, industrial design, and the machine age. Characterised by smooth curves, horizontal lines, and minimal ornamentation, it reflected a shift towards function and efficiency. Its influence can still be seen in contemporary architecture, product design, and fashion, where clean lines and fluid forms remain central to modern aesthetics.

Saul Bass was a graphic designer and filmmaker, perhaps best known for his design of film posters and title sequences. During his 40-year career Bass worked for some of Hollywood's greatest filmmakers, including Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick, Otto Preminger, Billy Wilder, and Martin Scorsese. He became well-known in the film industry after creating the title sequence for Otto Preminger's 'The Man with the Golden Arm' in 1955. For Alfred Hitchcock, Bass designed effective and memorable title sequences, inventing a new type of kinetic typography, for 'North by Northwest', 'Vertigo', and 'Psycho'.

Hungarian-born Marcel Breuer was one of the most imaginative and influential designers and architects of the 20th century. He studied and then taught at the Bauhaus School, revolutionizing fine arts, craft, and industrial design. He was a relentless innovator and in 1925, he came up with his infamous tubular steel furniture, inspired by bicycle frames and made with the latest in steel-bending technology.

The Bauhaus movement is often associated with iconic male figures like Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, but many talented women played a crucial role in shaping its legacy. Despite facing systemic barriers and being pushed into disciplines like weaving rather than architecture or industrial design, artists like Anni Albers, Gunta Stölzl, and Marianne Brandt made groundbreaking contributions. Their innovative work in textiles, metalwork, and photography helped define the Bauhaus aesthetic, yet their recognition remained limited for decades. Only in recent years have these forgotten women begun to receive the credit they deserve for their influence on modern design.

Man Ray was a pioneering artist and photographer whose innovative works bridged the worlds of Surrealism and Dada. Known for his experimental approach, he redefined photography with his "rayographs" and striking portraits while also excelling in painting, sculpture, and film. Known for documenting the cultural elite in France, Man Ray consistently challenged the formal constraints of the visual arts, and his provocative and innovative work continues to inspire and engage audiences today.

Saul Steinberg was a Romanian-born cartoonist and illustrator, best known for his work in The New Yorker, where his playful, imaginative style brought everyday subjects to life. Initially, he studied philosophy before switching to architecture in Milan; however, due to anti-Semitic policies in Italy, he fled and settled in the U.S. Over his career, Steinberg created more than 1,200 drawings, including 87 magazine covers. His work remains relevant today, and his unique blend of fine art and illustration has left a lasting legacy, influencing countless artists and cartoonists around the world.

Bob Noorda was a prominent Dutch graphic designer and typographer known for his influential work in wayfinding and signage, particularly for the Amsterdam Metro. His design philosophy focused on simplicity and clarity, significantly enhancing user experience in navigation. Beyond transit systems, Noorda's impact extended to branding and environmental graphics, influencing projects across Europe and the United States. His legacy continues to inspire designers in public signage and user-oriented design.

Victor Vasarely, often regarded as the father of Op Art (Optical Art), was a Hungarian-French artist renowned for his visually dynamic and geometric abstract works that play with optical illusions. His art is characterised by bold patterns, vibrant colours, and the use of shapes to create movement and depth, challenging the viewer’s perception of space and form. Vasarely’s innovative approach had a significant influence on modern art and design, establishing him as a key figure in 20th-century art.