Durham Enviro Stars

Graphic arts refers to the artistic interpretation and creation of design through artistic expression. In other words, graphic art is the art of visualizing ideas. Graphic artists use their creativity and talent to design, display, advertise, package and promote. Graphic design is seen everywhere in the world around us – from books and magazines, food products, cars, household appliances, clothing, computers, and everything in between.

A graphic artist is also often referred to as a graphic designer. He or she uses a diverse range of media to create designs and visually convey a message or an idea to the public. Since the aim of a graphic designer is to enhance the image and saleability of a product, the work profile could encompass designs for websites, logos, stationery, print material, advertisements, films and videos, posters, brochures, and other promotional materials. Responsibilities could also include overseeing layouts during printing of magazines, books and newspapers, designing sets for theatre and film and even furniture design. Many graphic designers still use traditional tools such as pencil, ink and paper but more and more now rely on computer aided technology and the latest design software to enhance their work.

Graphic artists are required to hold a Graphic Arts degree or a diploma in Graphic Design, Visual Art or Commercial Art. In addition to this, hands-on experience is necessary along with a portfolio full of ideas and work. A graphic artist needs to be independent and self motivated and possess the imagination and creativity to deal with a range of subjects and products. A close attention to detail and an instinct for color, shape and form is essential. A good graphic artist would be one with an exposure to a wide range of media and communication techniques. He or she will be fluent in handling all sorts of tools, techniques, drawings and models. Graphic designers need to evaluate their customer’s needs and must be adept at all sorts of sales and marketing strategies. Therefore, a comprehensive knowledge of theory and methodology is required to excel in this type of career.

Ever looked at a colorful marketing brochure or a website and thought of different ways you would design it if given a chance? Often find yourself marveling at the originality of an artwork on a book cover? Every time graphics roll on the evening news, do you wonder if there was a way to do it better? If your answer to the above questions is yes and you have an undying thirst for creativity, then you probably are a prime candidate for becoming a graphic artist.

Becoming a graphic designer involves as much hard work and commitment as it does flair and creativity. Your talent needs to be nurtured appropriately, and your creativity channelized in the right direction if you want to make a serious career out of graphic arts. And one way to do this is through sound training and a relevant education in the field. But before we get down on the nitty-gritty of how to become a graphic artist, let’s take a closer look at what graphic artists do.

Simply put, graphic designers create visual communication of an idea or a message. They use a variety of materials such as images, sound, illustrations, animation, type, and color to create visual solutions. They work in industries ranging from films, television, and publishing to advertising, gaming and fashion.

Getting Education

So, how does one go about becoming a graphic designer? The first step is to find your way to a college or university that offers a graphic arts degree. There will be many people who will try to argue you out of enrolling for a college degree. Some believe that there is no point spending hard earned (or borrowed) dollars on something that you can teach yourself, while others will insist that a portfolio is all that matters to make it as a graphic designer.

Admittedly, portfolios creation and online tutorials are crucial part of your training. But equally important is a solid education that only a graphic design program can provide.

Internet-Music Bond

The collaboration of Internet and music has shared a bond pleasing musicians and their audience since its inception a few years ago. On one hand, downloading music online allows its audience the option of obtaining music for free, a benefit to both the musicians and the audience. However, the Internet has also acted as the villain for opening a lot of avenues where talent goes unrecognised and do not get their due credit, which in a way is generally referred to as ‘online piracy.’

It doesn’t appear to be a new fad as streaming music sites with free accessible content are being used by a growing number of listeners as a substitute for buying music. For instance, a few years back, a survey revealed that music enthusiasts often spent a whopping amount of 0 per month buying CDs and digital downloads to fill their iPod.

Whereas, the internet and music bonding came a long way and proved less taxing, where in it has enabled music lovers to get their favourite music by spending only or less each month. Services like Imeem and Last.fm (CBS) have given the music listeners a golden opportunity to listen to any kind of music over the Web for free or at minimal cost.

Online and Streaming Music Services

A San-Francisco based graphic designer offers his excitement and love for the industry. “I listen to more music than I used to. I pretty much have music playing all the time. It’s because I can access so much of it, however I want.”

The idea of online and streaming music services like Imeem, Last.fm, and Pandora would allow people to listen to music on PCs, mobile devices, and home stereos, while collecting small fees and advertising revenue for the services which is shared with labels and artists.