Graphic Design

Graphic design is a rapidly-growing field. There are seemingly unending applications for the skill and, as society is availed of more and more means to advertise, disseminate information and transmit messages, the field is sure to grow. This field is a good choice for all types of artists. Some graphic designers work on very stylized, artistic projects while others design the layout for publications and other materials. Whatever one's artistic strength, this field offers an opportunity to develop and market it.

The work of graphic design has largely moved away from the drafting table and to the computer desk. Working in the field will require a solid knowledge of several different types of software, the printing processes used to reproduce the work and, more than ever, a knowledge of various web technologies. This field keeps expanding. As once-specialty fields become common knowledge, such as HTML tagging, graphic designers are expected to be able to do a wider variety of tasks involved in the production process. This makes the field more complex, but also provides the artists with a constantly evolving set of tools with which to work.

The applications of graphic design most often involve commercial projects. This can be anything from conceiving and executing the logo for a company or products, designing print or web ads as part of a campaign or even designing more every-day products, such as envelopes and letterhead. This skill set is always in large demand and employment as a full-time designer can usually be found at large and small firms. Independent employment, of course, is one of the biggest draws to this field.

Graphic design on a contract basis is a way many artists support themselves while leaving adequate time to pursue their own projects. A talented designer can easily demand a high price, especially if they have a diverse set of skills and can work in several different formats. Most often, these individuals work from their home, on their own schedule and, oftentimes, their income is most limited by the amount of work they're able to do rather than the amount of work they're able to find. As one becomes more skilled, of course, one can do more jobs more quickly and increase one's income.

A degree in graphic design is a good choice among the various art degrees offered at colleges. It doesn't impede the pursuit of any fine arts goals and may well finance them.