Graphic Design Takes On Fine Art

By Fran Walker
fran.walker@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist

Future graphic designers can choose from art schools, art departments or graphic arts schools to learn their craft. But with the proliferation of design packages, and the commercial nature of graphic design, can we still call it art?

Is Fine Art More Valuable than Graphic Design?
Look at the range of programs offered at graphic art schools. They are usually divided into design and fine art. Fine art remains what most people conceive to be true art; graphic design is very much the commercial arm of the subject. But look closely at most modern fine art programs and what will you find on the syllabus? Along with more traditional subjects such as painting and sculpture, you will find printmaking, installation, video, electronic image making and photography. Go figure.

Graphic Arts School Makes You a Better Designer Most modern "artists" are fully conversant with technology. New art installations are increasingly based around them. In addition, many people now consider advertising to offer some of the best examples of art around today. I've said it before, but knowing your way around a design package does not make you an artist. Graphic designers need artistic talent, along with a good dose of organisation, business sense and computer savvy; that's what graphic arts schools are for. Graphic design remains the fastest growing career for the graphic arts. Even artists have to eat, after all.

About the Author
Fran Walker is a freelance writer and editor specializing in educational and domestic issues. Fran graduated in 1993 with a BA(Hons) in English Literature.