My Suggestions as a Graphic Design Teacher: How to Start Learning Graphic Design
I’ve been teaching graphic design for quite a few years now, and it’s funny how my perspective on ‘how to learn graphic design’ has evolved over time. Back when I was in school, I had my fair share of clashes with myself, and I couldn’t help but butt heads with my professors from time to time. I even questioned whether I truly loved graphic design or if I should explore another career because, as I dug deeper into the subject, I seemed to hit more and more roadblocks.
But you know what? Teaching graphic design changed everything for me. It pushed me to explore new techniques, which, in turn, broke down those frustrating limitations I’d been grappling with. It’s like a whole new visual world opened up before my eyes. Teaching also made me think deeper, asking myself countless ‘whys’ as I prepared for hypothetical questions my students might throw my way.
The result? Well, those new techniques and those thought-provoking questions totally transformed my ‘style.’ Now, I feel like I can soar freely in the vast sky of graphic design. So, I’m excited to share some advice with you, even if it might seem a bit unconventional at times.
Graphic Design: More than Meets the Eye
Let’s start with something interesting: graphic design is not as creative as you think. Now, don’t get me wrong, graphic design is bursting with creativity, but it’s not all about unleashing your wildest artistic fantasies. Here’s why: At its heart, graphic design is all about communication. It’s like a conversation between visuals and the audience, and in a conversation, both sides need to understand each other. Whether we’re using text or images, the goal is to make sure the message gets across loud and clear. So, as much as we’d love to go all-out with groundbreaking, never-before-seen designs, the reality is that we’re tethered to the need for people to ‘get’ what we’re saying. It’s a beautiful balance between creativity and clarity, where the magic happens.
Embrace the Creative-Technical Synergy
Alright, let’s dive into our second point: the dynamic dance between creativity and technique in graphic design. There’s often this notion that creativity reigns supreme, and while that’s true to a large extent, it’s crucial to understand that creativity and technique are like best friends who bring out the best in each other. Learning the ins and outs of design software isn’t just about technical know-how; it’s about unleashing your creative beast. It’s the ‘Aha!’ moment when you realize that the more techniques you master, the more your creative juices flow. Think of it as a symphony where software skills play a vital role in translating your artistic vision into reality. Without them, it’s like trying to compose music without knowing how to read notes. So, embrace this creative-technical synergy because it’s the key to making your design dreams come true and turning your imagination into beautiful, tangible art.
The Surprising Power of Replication
Okay, here comes something intriguing: the role of replication in learning graphic design. I get it; when you think about design, your inner creative artist might cringe at the idea of copying someone else’s work. After all, we’re here to be original, right? But remember, graphic design is a lot like a universal language — a visual one, that is. And sometimes, studying and replicating good work can be your secret superpower. Imagine it as a crash course in visual communication.
So, here’s the deal: when you decide to replicate a design, especially those elegant typographic posters, it’s not about mindlessly mimicking. It’s about diving deep into the ‘whys.’ Why did the information end up there? Why is that title font so big, and the text so small? Why white on a medium blue background and black on sky blue? As you replicate, use the same dimensions, and unravel the design choices. It’s like peeling back the layers of a creative onion. This process not only helps you understand the design’s logic but also gives you a sneak peek into the designer’s decision-making process. It’s like learning to dance by watching the pros and picking up their moves. So, embrace the ‘whys,’ and you’ll discover that replication can be a powerful tool in your graphic design journey.
The Art of Smartly Browsing
Alright, folks, let’s wrap things up with a gem of wisdom: smartly browsing other people’s work as a fantastic way to level up your design game. Whether you’re in a class or on your solo journey, this habit is like nurturing your visual taste buds — it’s all about building your own unique preferences.
Now, picture this: you’re scrolling through project after project, soaking in the creativity of fellow designers. It’s not just idle browsing; it’s like a treasure hunt for inspiration. When you stumble upon a project that resonates with you, take a moment to ask yourself, ‘Why do I like this?’ Is it the color palette that tickles your fancy, or perhaps the elegant fonts or the mood it evokes? And here’s the fun part: ponder why you prefer one font over another or how it fits into the project’s vibe. Could you use it differently? Or is there another font that might do the job even better?
Now, here’s where it gets exciting. Spend some quality time with these projects. Get to know the backstory, the ‘why’ behind the ‘what.’ Analyze with a keen eye. Before you know it, you’ll be rocking a superpower: critical thinking. You’ll develop the ability to dissect designs, understand the decisions that shaped them, and apply those insights to your own work. It’s like having a secret toolbox of design tricks, all thanks to the art of smartly browsing and some good old critical thinking. So, my friends, keep those virtual pages turning, and watch your design skills flourish!
So, my fellow design enthusiasts, remember, that graphic design is a vibrant realm where creativity and technique dance harmoniously. It’s a fusion of artistry and strategy that, when explored with an open mind, can lead to infinite creative possibilities. With these insights in your toolkit, you’re ready to embark on your graphic design journey with newfound confidence. May your designs be bold, your creativity boundless, and your visual storytelling captivating. Here’s to the exciting world of graphic design!
