What is Graphic Design?

    The first representations of graphic design can be seen as far back as cave paintings and tomb wall drawings of ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians. Graphic design is art with a purpose. The visual communication and expression of concepts and ideas is produced through various elements. It can be found everywhere: logos, websites, business cards, advertisements, book design, brochures, billboards, product packaging, posters, magazines newspapers, greeting cards! 

    The design process:

1. RESEARCH

    *set goals and context of the project

    *client background, product evaluation, gather info, context analysis

2. VISUALIZE

    *create a market strategy

    *creative brief, conceptual development, information architecture, market strategy

3. DESIGN

    *create the look and feel of the project

    *design sketches, design evaluation, client discussion, design interaction

4. CREATE

    *create the final product of the project

    *create prototype, finalize design, production, launch campaign 

    Above is the shirt design I've created for the final project. I chose this quote from Da Vinci because of its direct correlation to graphic design. This past month, I have learned the importance of having confidence in your work, and having the ability to "defend" or justify your work to clients. An important aspect of design is also being able to keep up with changes and trends, produce work based on what you've heard, seen or felt, and using your opinions to contribute to your work. 

    As a way to keep up with trends, I use Pinterest for my inspiration. I've been working on several projects lately for different clients, and I find it most useful to look at sorority/fraternity event shirts. The vibrant colors, attention to detail, and creativity really appeal to me. I saw a floral wreath on another shirt, a decided to make my own. The font compliments the floral theme, and I think it would look lovely printed on the back of a t-shirt.

    I enjoy graphic design because it develops my creative abilities. There is always something new to learn or observe. It challenges me to keep up with trends in design, and often work on tight deadlines. There aren't many boundaries with graphic design. I can draw inspiration from just about anywhere, and transfer ideas to sketches, onto a computer, and manipulate the Adobe programs in order to achieve the desired effect. After discovering the world of graphic design, I can't go anywhere without noticing it.