How did the Bauhaus combine teaching by artists and craftspeople?

The Bauhaus sought to bridge the historical divide between art and craftsmanship by training students equally in both disciplines. To achieve this, Walter Gropius implemented a unique dual-instruction system within the school's workshops.1

Each workshop was typically led by two instructors:
* The Form Master: An artist who focused on the theoretical and aesthetic aspects of design.1
* The Craftsman: A specialist who emphasized practical techniques and technical processes.1

Before entering these specialized workshops, students were required to complete a six-month preliminary course, known as the Vorkurs, which introduced them to fundamental design principles, including the psychological effects of form, color, and texture. By requiring architects and designers to undergo this practical training, Gropius ensured they were intimately acquainted with materials and production processes.21

Ultimately, this approach aimed to move beyond the creation of individual luxury items, instead directing design efforts toward functional objects suitable for mass manufacture and modern society.1