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What Is Graphic Design?

By Michelle Ecker on May 17, 2019

What Is Graphic Design?

If you are interested in pursuing a creative career but aren't sure which is the best fit, graphic design is a promising field worth exploring. You’re probably somewhat familiar with a professional graphic designer’s role and the work involved in this industry, but if you’re unsure of the details, here’s a brief overview of what you can expect in this line of work:

The History of Graphic Design

The term “Graphic Design” itself started being used in the 1920s, during a time when the print industry was taking off, and things like company logos needed to be designed given the new availability of printed advertising. Essentially, “Graphic Design” concerns things like aesthetic appeal and marketing efforts- using things like color, design and imagery in order to get people to notice a logo or an ad.

What Exactly Is Graphic Design?

Graphic design is the art of creating visual content as a way of communicating messages to an audience. Examples of graphic design we’re familiar with in our day to day lives might include: billboards, package designs on the products we use, advertisements in public spaces, and plenty more.

By applying very calculated and intentional visual hierarchy and page layout techniques, professionally trained graphic designers are able to meet very specific communication needs in developing effective, constructive visual content for their clients.

Not only that, by making careful choices when it comes to things like color, typography and pictures, professional graphic designers are also able to meticulously arrange the “logic” of a design, in order to display elements that viewers will respond with, engage with, and notice.

What is a Graphic Design Career Like?

Everyday responsibilities depend on what industry the graphic designer works in, or what type of design they may specialize in. Generally, a graphic designer works closely with a client or an art director. Their responsibilities include determining project scope, conceptualizing the design, and then creating the visual elements to execute that design for a brand or a client.

Can I Study Graphic Design?

If you’re interested in learning graphic design, NYIAD offers a self-paced, online course that can help you prepare for a career in this exciting creative industry. The course will help you learn Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator softwares specifically. Click here for more information on how to get started.

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