What is the point of graphic design ? Is it advertising or is it art ? What purpose does it serve in our society and culture ? In his book "Graphic Design As Communication", Malcolm Barnard explores how meaning and identity are the core of every graphic design project and argues that the role and function of graphic design is, and always has been communication.
Malcom Barnard is Senior Lecturer in the history and theory of art and design at the University of Derby. His previous publications include Fashion as Communication, Art, Design and Visual Culture and Approaches to Understanding Visual Culture.
Here’s the quick snapshot of definition and functions of graphic design. (click to enlarge)
But here’s the most interesting definition of graphic design by Marshall Arisman who places art, illustration, graphic design in a scale of ‘purity’.
- Fine Art is pure.
- Illustration is the beginning of selling out.
- Graphic Design is commercial art.
- Advertising is selling – period.
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