Graphic design is very much oriented around the use of words. For example, in typography, words are used as objects to create an intriguing design by arranging the letters in a compelling composition.They are also used in various styles and proportion in order to tell the intended story through the use of graphics. Not only is typography a way to tell stories, but there is also the use of color. As many of us have learned in our color theory classes, there is psychology behind each color in every instance. Different colors evoke different moods, along with their varying tints and shades. On top of graphic design, there is also branding that is an essential form of storytelling. The way you display yourself and your work is a form of branding, and it is an invitation to your audience to know more about you as an artist and as a person.
Sometimes, I admittingly have trouble titling or captioning my work because I want it to be meaningful or purposeful to accurately represent the piece itself and the amount of effort that went into creating it. As Austin Kleon explains, “the truth is, our work doesn’t speak for itself”, therefore we must learn how to tell good stories (Show Your Work, 93). Our words have significance and power, just like our work does, and the ability to put both of those factors together is what makes our story come to life. Our work is a testimony to who we are, what we have been through, and where we are going in life.
I often have trouble with falling in love with my work and then taking criticism to heart. Granted, I don’t think it is necessarily a bad thing to be passionate about what you do or to be proud of the kind of work you produce, but not everybody is going to like your work and that’s a part of life. It is all about finding those who are going to appreciate and value your time and effort. With that being said, constructive criticism is solely meant to help further my growth as an artist, and I am very appreciative of whoever helps me in my journey. As far as social media networking, I believe it is okay to display your work as "flawed" or still in progress because it shows a more authentic side of things than a perfectly finished product. As the great Bob Ross once said, "we don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents." In the end, our work should have a purpose, meaning, and narrative behind everything we make whether we intended it or not. Our job in life is to tell good stories and leave the world better than when we found it.
Comments