What is Graphic Design?

After reading through the introductory text in my course file, I summarised my understanding of what defines graphic design:

words + visuals > communicate to an audience

Problem solving > how to communicate particular information to a specific audience.

Analyse > what needs to be communicated.

Anticipate > audience interpretation.

Presentation > how best to effectively construct information.

Distribution > how final piece will be delivered.

A graphic designer needs to be both a thinker and maker.

‘Form follows function.’

Playful and inventive thinking.

Develop new ideas to solve communication problems.

Graphic design is rooted in language:

– written language > typography

– visual language > images/colours/composition/signs/symbols

Graphic designers need to be visually literate > understand visual language > culturally aware > use visual references to communicate to an audience.

Observation of surrounding world/diversity of cultural references > draw on these to communicate through design.

Technical ability.

Cultural awareness of visual world.

Creativity – play with and test out ideas.

Ability to analyse – identify and solve problems creatively.