Chapter 1. Intro to Graphic Design

It was in 1922 that book designer William A. Dwiggins first used the words graphic design to describe the emerging field of visual communication. Students at the Bauhaus art school in Germany were creating daring poster designs through the collage of photographic images and typography.

Fast-forward to today, and graphic design is over 80 years old but still lookin' good. Always a field in flux, graphic design has undergone a revolution in the last 20 years as production methods have moved from the pasteboard to the PC.

Has design itself changed? Yes and no. New media have emerged, but the basic principles of art and design are still required to create good work. In this first chapter, we will explore what graphic design is and discuss the important roles of imagery, color, typography, and composition.

COURSE DEVELOPER: GORDON DRUMMOND

Gordon Drummond is the Chief Learning Officer at Sessions. Gordon is an editor and educator with more than 15 years of experience in developing print and online curriculum.

Figure 1.1. Detail from a creative ad campaign by Viva Dolan Communications.

In this chapter you will:

• Learn some of the defining characteristics of graphic design.

• Get an overview of the professional graphic design process.

• Learn how design conveys a visual message.

• Explore how design can support a company brand.

• Learn how design communicates to an audience.

• Investigate the roles of imagery, color, typography, and composition in design.

• Critique two outstanding examples of visual design.