What does the field of graphic design do?
(fig. 1) photo of the website for Karol Kacperski by ROCHE STUDIO
We often use the term “graphic design” or derivative statements. But what does this term mean and what does this field focus on? To answer this question, we will begin by explaining the broader concept of graphics, moving on to discuss design issues and their examples.
What does the graphic mean and what does it do?
graphikós - an attempt to reproduce reality
The name comes from the Greek word graphikós, which refers to an attempt to reproduce reality on paper or another surface, which is intended to preserve the presentation of a given situation or convey information. So when we say that we need graphics we mean creating an image that informs the user about something.
artistic graphics are used for the artist's expression
Graphics are divided into artistic graphics and design graphics. Artistic graphics are used to express emotions, ideas or the artist's individual vision - they do not have to be functional or adapt to the recipient's requirements. This kind of works depend only on the artist's style and idea, often using traditional printing techniques such as linocut, etching, lithography or digital techniques. Design graphics are created mainly for practical purposes, to communicate specific content or fulfill specific tasks - they must be legible, functional and aesthetically adapted to the appropriate recipients by analyzing the needs of the client or user.
graphic design is the making of decisions that facilitate the readability of messages
Graphic design is about conveying visual content in such a way that the recipient, even without knowing that they are dealing with design, easily knows what the message is about and what it is aimed at. The designer should create graphics that not just “exist”, but also contain elements that are important to the recipients - it must be well thought out so that the whole is coherent and understandable.
By definition, design means “to make a plan, to think something over, to develop”. So what assumptions should be taken into account during graphic design? You should think about what elements are needed by the recipients: what meaning a given colour scheme has for them, why they should identify with selected forms (geometric, round, drawing, illustration, etc.), how the selected typography is important to a given group of recipients. For a designer, not only functionality will be an important element, but also the aesthetics of execution - because only the combination of these two elements will properly direct the recipient to the content and meaning of the project.
visual materials created for a specific purpose can be called a graphic design
Graphic design is a very extensive field and it concerns many visual elements that surround us every day. In fact, it would be hard not to surround yourself with these elements nowadays, because they concern everything we use or look at. Below are some examples:
- Visual Identity - refers not only to the design of trademarks (logos), but also to the colors, typography and other elements that create a coherent visual identity for the marketing materials of a company, organization or product;
- Printed and electronic publications - are tangible projects such as book cover designs and their means, CD or vinyl covers with a disc sticker and booklet added to the disc, all kinds of lifestyle guides, brochures, e-books, magazines, posters and ephemeral printing;
- Websites - this applies not only to the aesthetic issue, but also to the user experience (UX) and the design of interfaces (UI) friendly to the audience, that is, easy to use and easy to read;
- Illustrations - can be made in traditional or digital form, often needed to complement (for a website, for social media posts) or as the main form of communication e.g. on posters or in graphic novels.
we hope that this short “guide” was useful and that you will be able to achieve success. if you want us to help with this
write to us at hello@rochestudio.eu together we will get to the point!
