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Graphic Design - Introduction

During my first year of high school, I decided that I should get a graphic design diploma after I finished school. I just knew that is what I wanted. That I had absolutely no clue what being a graphic designer would be like, did not matter in the least. And so, after I matriculated, I plunged head-over-heals into the pursuit of my dream career.

That first year of the three year graphic design diploma course, I was exposed to a very wide spectrum of fine arts subjects, including painting, ceramics, sculpture, textile design, drawing, interior design, and yes, graphic design. However, even for graphic design, all projects had to be completed by hand. Why were we being taught such archaic methods? My starry-eyed enthusiasm soon faded, and it was a challenge to see the year end-out. But by the end of the first year, I was delighted to be among the thirty students selected to major in graphic design. I couldn’t wait to learn computer graphics.
    
Only years down the line, after I had completed my diploma and started my career, I realized the value of all I have learned - especially during that first year that I had thought a waste. Because I discovered that the skill I have acquired to use computer graphics software, didn’t make me a designer. The computer and software are, like a brush and paint without the artists’ talent, quite useless if not being applied by a creative person with an eye, and intuition, for what visually works.

After two decades of being a graphic designer, the basic building blocks of design remain my treasure, my go-to for inspiration and guidance in completing my clients’ projects.

That is why I urge you, whether you are an aspiring graphic design student, or maybe just want to try your hand at designing your own company logo – lay the foundation, first. I plan to do my bit to help you, here on our blog, by posting informative articles about graphic design elements such as:
    Colour
    Typography
    Terminology
    And more
    
So, pop in here to stash up on some free building blocks, whenever you feel the need. Maybe even if you don’t think it essential. Because once you have a solid foundation, what you build on it, should stand.