Although I have been known to draw my own digital art from time to time, I am a Graphic Designer, not a Graphic Artist. There has been some debate over the years about what a Graphic Designer does versus what a Graphic Artist does. There is a significant difference and hopefully I can clear all that up here…I will do my best!
A Graphic Designer focuses on a client’s objective and problem-solving, creating a unified visual solution by arranging elements like text and images to communicate a message. In contrast, a Graphic Artist is a specialist who creates the individual pieces of art, like illustrations or digital paintings, and prioritizes self-expression and emotional impact over a commercial goal. Graphic Designers work with a broader set of tools and skills to assemble a final design, whereas Graphic Artists focus on producing the content that designers then use.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
- Focus: Client-based, objective, and problem-solving.
- Role: Creates a comprehensive visual solution by combining different elements, such as type, images, and other art, to convey a specific message or achieve a business goal.
- Skills: Proficient in page layout, logo design, typography, and the use of design software to assemble elements and present them effectively.
- Output: Commercial graphics, logos, marketing materials, and layouts for print and digital media.
GRAPHIC ARTIST
- Focus: Personal expression and subjective communication of emotions or perspectives.
- Role: Creates the individual visual assets that a graphic designer will then incorporate into a larger design.
- Skills: A talent for originality, creating illustrations, digital art, or paintings, and mastery of technical artistic skills.
- Output: Illustrations, paintings, digital artwork, and other creative visuals used in projects.
KEY DIFFERENCES SUMMARIZED
- Purpose: A designer solves a problem for a client; an artist creates based on their own style and vision.
- Involvement: Designers are concerned with the whole composition and its effectiveness; artists are focused on creating the individual art pieces.
- Work Style: Designers often work as part of a creative team, while artists may work more independently.
So there you have it. Hopefully that has cleared things up. I speak for all Graphic Designers out there when I say…when you consider hiring a Graphic Designer for your final product needs, it is imperative to have a Vision of what you want, or at least and idea. Having clear Keywords that plainly describe what you’re looking for will help any Graphic Designer get a feel of what your vision is and can search for the appropriate graphic elements to incorporate into your final Graphic.
Through Consultation, we can help you finalize your idea and create the best possible Graphic for your final product. If you’re ready to move forward, check out our General Pricing page or give us a call. We’re ready to get started!
BEST REGARDS,
Leo McLaughlin
Owner / Graphic Designer
LDM Graphic Design