The purpose of this side of the blog is to take you along on a journey into the world of Creative Graphic Design. Primarily, I will be searching out and evaluating Tutorials and Articles on Graphic Design and related Software. I will point out the best resources for learning the principles of good design. Together we will peek into the the finest online portfolios. I want to learn all the Photoshop-style Text Effects in the world: the cheesier the better! Let’s master the art of Designing with Color. Let’s learn to create Logos and Layouts that deliver that knock out punch. Come along!
As far as modern design is concerned, I am practically a beginner. In fact I bring very little to the table: not a Photoshop User, not an Illustrator, not a Web 2.0 Geek, and boy, do I love Helvetica, Brushscript and Comic Sans! What I am is a fast learner, someone who understands that knowledge is key. Don’t be fooled though, I do know a few things about Color Masks, Layers and Merge Modes. I am a decent Layout Artist who also handpainted quite a few banners in his life. And somewhere in my background there is a lot Technical Drafting and Pen & Ink drawing. That should count for something, shouldn’t it?
One thing I will also be doing a lot of in this series of posts, is taking the other side of the debate by arguing against some of the current design trends and beliefs. Most professional Designers, Students and established Freelancers think they have the last word. Judge and Executioner? I think not!
I believe Graphic Design is also a means to create Art and in the field of Art Appreciation, I am as good as the next person, if not better (I cry at art shows, for God’s sake)! Art is about that soft spot way inside of us where feelings reside. The experts may have opinions about structure, form, usage, color compatibility, and all that mumbo jumbo. But in the end, what really matters is how a certain piece makes a certain person feel.
“Feelings are not Opinions!” is a common retort of mine, and this is so true, in this domain as everywhere else. The beauty and appropriateness of a Sign, Print or Logo, depends a lot more on the target audience than on the skills and opinion of the designer and his peers. Niche market, anybody?
So, let’s grab the gloves and head for the center of the ring. I have a feeling it will be an interesting bout.
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Blog post by Tatán
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