What is graphic design? What does a graphic designer do?

If you look at a dictionary, the definition of graphic design or graphic design is as follows:

The art or skill of combining text and images in magazines, advertisements or books.

And, while perfectly precise, this definition of graphic design only scratches the surface of what graphic design is and what a graphic designer does, as well as its importance to modern society and what design is for. graphic. This is why I also like the definition of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts):

Graphic design, also known as communication design, is the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content.

The form it takes can be physical or virtual and can include pictures, words or graphics. The experience can take place in an instant or over a long period. The work can be done at any scale, from the design of a single postage stamp to a national postal signage system. It may be aimed at a small number of people, such as a one-time or limited-edition book or exhibition design, or may be viewed by millions of people, such as with the interconnected digital and physical content of an organization. international press. It can also be used for commercial, educational, cultural or political purposes.

Introduction to graphic design: a brief history

Graphic design is also known as communication design, commercial design or visual communication and has been part of our life for centuries. The evidence goes back to Greek and Roman architecture, but it wasn't until 1922 that William Addison Dwiggins coined the term "graphic design".

In the 1700s, these techniques were mostly used in newspaper advertisements, but in a fairly rudimentary fashion. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the techniques were also developed in collectible cards, classifieds and public notices.

But graphic design as we know it today was born at the start of the 20th century. For example, the signage for the London Underground is considered a masterpiece of the modern era.

In fact, he used a typeface specially developed for the project and which is still in use today. The design industry exploded over the next 80 to 90 years, and a career in graphic design is a very good option for many people.

In an attempt to define graphic design, New Typography, the book by Jan Tshichold, was incredibly influential. The German Bauhaus design school took things a step further and laid a solid foundation for today's designers.

We also have graphic designers like Milton Glaser, Abram Games, Neville Brody, and several others who have taken things to another level. When talking about graphic design, it's important to note that it plays a crucial role in pop culture, commerce, and many other aspects of modern society.

Graphic design applications

Graphic design is everywhere. From logos on your office supplies and mugs, to wrappers on chocolate bars.

You will see hundreds of examples of graphic design every day and most of the time you won't even really realize the impact it has on you. He fulfills many functions and wears several hats.

Here are some of its uses:

⦁ Branding and visual identity

⦁ Signage

⦁ Prints

⦁ Packaging

⦁ Album covers

⦁ Digital

⦁ Film and television graphics and titles

⦁ Greeting cards

⦁ T-shirt and other clothing

This is just a small fraction of the possible uses. In some situations, such as the design of road signs, this should provide a clear and easy way to convey information; and the underground maps of New York or London are a prime example.

The design takes something fairly complex and simplifies it, making it easier to navigate. If the design is too complex, it interferes with the function of the card itself and thus makes it unnecessary.

However, in other situations it can go in the opposite direction, and be shocking, difficult to read. This is often seen in album covers, posters, and other disruptive forms of design. And, in this modern world, graphic design and web design often go hand in hand.

A magazine, grocery store or any other type of business also needs to be online, and designers need to maintain a consistent appearance across multiple disciplines, with digital design often dictating how the rest is done.

But, whatever its usefulness, without graphic design, modern society would not work. And it's not just about making things pretty, it's a crucial part of business, as well as of life.

Education and training requirements

If you are considering pursuing this career, you will need a bachelor's degree in graphic design. However, if you have a degree in another major discipline, all you need is technical traiAnd, even after getting a job, keeping up with the latest design trends is essential. You should also keep abreast of new software updates, and you will find that many software vendors offer certification if you have been trained in the use of their software.

What are the transversal skills you will need?

You don't just need a formal education, but some soft skills, personal characteristics that will help you be successful in the profession.

⦁ Listening, good listening skills are essential to understand your customers' needs

⦁ Oral communication, when you need to present your ideas to clients

⦁ Creativity, because a good designer must always be able to come up with a new idea

⦁ Decision making because you have to decide how to communicate your customers' messages

⦁ Active learning, when you need to keep up with the latest technology trends

⦁ Time management, because it is a task that depends heavily on deadlinesning in that area.

Elements of graphic design

Graphic design can use image-based composition that involves illustrations, photos, logos and symbols, as well as character-based compositions, or even a combination of the two. Creations can include one or more combinations of the following:

The lines, whether they are curved, straight, wavy, thin, thick; the possibilities are limitless. They allow a designer to separate the content of a layout or divide a space. They can also be used to guide the viewer's eyes.

Shapes offer many possibilities for creatively filling spaces, supporting content and balancing design. You can create shapes from scratch and use spaces to give your design clarity and structure.

Color, or the lack of it, is very important. You will need a solid understanding of color theory, and you can easily influence a design and a brand by incorporating colors in bold ways or with brilliant subtlety.

Typography can help you turn a simple text message into a work of art. The combination of fonts and alignments with spacing, colors and scale can add a lot of power to the message you are communicating to the world.

Texture can make even the smoothest, brightest ads seem tangible. By its visual aspect, it will give Graphic design tools

A professional designer is much more than a creative mind with an artistic inclination.

In graphic design, it is essential to acquire an in-depth knowledge of observation as well as analytical thinking. A designer will use various methods to combine their knowledge of art and technology and communicate a specific message creating an impressive visual.

They can be limited to texts and images. But there are more material ways of translating the designer's thought.

Sketchbooks are traditional tools that you can use to sketch out an idea. They are the fastest way to draft. This design can then be developed with other technologies and tools.

Computers are the essential tool in every designer's toolbox, and hardware like the (drawing) tablet can allow you to expand your creative freedom while still retaining the feel of the sketchbook.

Software and technology have opened new avenues for realizing a creative vision. You will find specialized software such as Photoshop and Illustrator to help you with everything from creating illustrations to enhancing photographs and creating stunning layouts.you an idea of ​​the tactile surface and the depth.

So what is graphic design?

Graphic design is what will communicate your brand and message through an awesome logo, enchanting brochure, and stunning posters. Often confused with the illustrator, a designer will combine illustrations, photographs and typeface to communicate a certain idea.

Considering the difference between a furniture maker and an interior designer is one way to understand this. One makes a specific object for a specific purpose and the other thinks about how to use it and create an environment.

A good illustrator is usually a skilled designer, and vice versa, which makes differentiating them a bit difficult.

Conclusions on the definition of graphic design

In summary, a graphic designer is someone who uses visuals to communicate a message in writing, as well as electronically.

They will develop a design for everyone, whether it is magazines or newspapers, websites, video games, packaging or marketing materials