Graphic Design and Art

Graphic Design and Its Relation to Art

Overview

  • Graphic design is similar to printmaking; both aim to create art that is easily understood and consumed by a large audience.

  • Graphic design is related to fine art but typically doesn't fall into the fine art category.

Objectives

  • Analyze the meaning of images in graphic design and its classification in fine art.

  • Discuss the integral role of layout and typeface in design.

  • Learn about different types of graphic designs, such as lithography and serigraphy.

Key Terms

  • Graphic design

  • Logo

  • Symbol

  • Typography

  • Typefaces

  • Layout

  • Advertisement

  • Lithography

  • Serigraphy

  • Silkscreen printing

Graphic Design

  • Graphic design communicates a complete design through a symbol or a logo.

  • A logo is a symbol that establishes an identity.

Symbols in Graphic Design vs. Fine Art

  • Fine art relies on an unconscious understanding of symbols.

    • Example: A woman with children symbolizes family.

  • Graphic design often creates new symbols to brand a company, product, or service.

    • These symbols initially may have no inherent meaning but gain significance through manipulation.

    • Example: The Nike swish had no initial cultural meaning but now represents athletics and shoes.

Typography

  • Typography is the use of words in graphic design.

  • Typeface refers to the font used.

Typeface

  • Typeface is the font used in graphic design.

  • Various fonts can have different effects on people.

  • Serif fonts have small decorative strokes (serifs) at the end of letters.

    • Example: A letter "t" with serifs has small lines at the top and bottom.

  • Sans serif fonts do not have serifs.

    • Example: A letter "t" without serifs is a simple vertical line with a horizontal line at the top.

  • Typeface choice affects how people respond to logos and brand identities.

Layout

  • Layout is the overall plan determining the appearance of a page or design.

  • Layouts are designed to affect consumer psychology.

  • Advertisements are designed to be interesting and to encourage purchase.

  • Advertisements may manipulate images to create a specific impression.

Lithography

  • Lithography is a type of graphic design derived from "litho," meaning stone.

  • It involves using a stone press where areas are made receptive to ink.

  • Widely used in modern pop art and printmaking.

  • Material is applied to a surface so that ink reacts in certain places but not others.

Serigraphy

  • Serigraphy uses a silk screen to force ink onto a surface.

  • Popular for creating t-shirt designs.

  • A screen is placed over the shirt, and ink is applied through the screen.

Review: Key Points

  • Images in graphic design and their classification in fine art.

  • Layout and typefaces play an integral role in design.

  • Different types of graphic designs, such as lithography and serigraphy.

Considerations

  • Recognize graphic design in the world.

  • Think about what the designer wants you to think or feel.

  • Consider if they are trying to sell an image, product, or belief.

  • Be aware of potential manipulation of psychology.

Important Reminder

  • When creating designs, portray elements carefully, especially type and symbols.