PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA IN
GRAPHIC DESIGN
MODULE 1
SUMMARY NOTES
LESSON 1: WHAT IS GRAPHIC DESIGN
, TABLE OF CONTENTS:
3 WHAT IS GRAPGIC DESIGN
THE ROLE OF GRAPHIC DESIGN
4 ELEMENTS OF DESIGN
5 HISTORY TIMELINE
6 WHAT DO YOU NEED IN ORDER TO BECOME A GRAPHIC DESIGNER?
7 GRAPHIC DESIGN CAREERS
9 GRAPHIC DESIGN TIPS
, 3 WWW.SHAWACADEMY.COM
What is Graphic Design?
Graphic design is a form of visual communication.
This means that a graphic designer uses visuals
consisting of illustrations, text and photographs to
communicate to a target audience visually.
Graphic design needs to communicate effectively.
This means that if the design you created using all
these elements (photography, illustrations and text)
does not communicate effectively, irrespective of how
interesting or aesthetically pleasing it may seem, your
task as a designer is not done.
Graphic design is there to make our everyday lives
more convenient and hassle free without us realising
it, thus we like to say that good design is transparent
or invisible since we do not ever realise it. Graphic
designers are creative problem solvers.
The role of graphic design
Graphic design is so much more than simply being
artistic. As mentioned, good design is transparent or
invisible, t is there to make our everyday lives more
convenient and hassle free without us realising it.
Consider the use of a very simple traffic icon. It’s
purpose is to direct you as quickly as possible.
These icons are even universal, meaning that almost
anyone, irrespective of their language or cultural
background, will be able to understand these icons.
Imagine how the world would function without the
use of visual communication?
Having the ability to understand visual
communication helps us navigate through life on a
daily basis.
Professional Diploma in Graphic Design