Do you think technology has help evolve graphic design within the last 20 years?
O'Yes I certainly do, technology has evolved graphic design into new worlds, homes and platforms environments considerably over the past 20 years. Own a mac or PC and you now have all the available tools to produce graphic content and in essence 'Graphic Design' I'm not suggesting graphic design is better or worst because of these developments if anything it's just made the process more accessible. Similarly one has only to consider the web to be aware of the effect tech has had on graphic arts and design, we are in the age of the prosumer, the content producer and consumer. the availability and mass communication of the medium is a good thing, quality will always rise to the top and the web is the largest repository of shared knowledge. On a pro level the workflow for Graphic design is immediate, machines are so powerful and file transfer around the globe and beyond is instant. Graphic Design and Communication Design is continually pushing new boundaries the technology is there to aid the designer or make real the design concept. As a huge fan and exponent of the handmade and 'craft' of graphic design I would sooner work on something I can touch, feel and smell. The Mac or PC is a tool nothing more, in the right hands it's a excellent tool.
Do you think old methods are just as good as new?
(E.G) I have recently practiced screen printing along with digital printing and found the process of screen printing much more personal, creative and preferred the over all outcome.
Likewise I think the hands-on and 'analogue' element of design is so much more rewarding than digital, the fact your dealing with real materials instead of a screen based algorithms is key, on a personal level I like the imperfections in medium, digital often appears too clean and sterile, the human element is easy to miss, however professionally and personally I use both methods, I would sooner still use 35mm Film in Photography instead digital, its only the fact later is more convenient and immediate that is more frequently used. Same with printing I studied screen printing and was shocked to discover Ravensbourne has removed this facility from it's new building and opted for a 'clearer' digitally operated system.
Do you think keeping up with software hinders your creativity?
I think it's difficult to keep up with software because of the rate at which it is developed, yes, although i wouldn't say this hinders creativity.
Once a designer is 'fluent in a particular piece software the process to shift into a 'newer' version of the software is already there, it's all about content and context, understanding what you want it to do rather than what it can do for you. The design content or need should drive the change, I just recently sat through an Adobe CS5 Suite workshop and was thrown into a spin with what the applications are now capable of collectively in moving Image and Graphic design production, however my own production needs are now made more convergent between applications so if anything my workflow has been made simpler. Learning a new piece of software can be a creative exercise providing the learning outcomes have a purposeful outcome. it's all about what you do with it it's only a tool. I genuinely believe the race to keep up with software does not make the whats produced any better, it maybe makes it quicker and easier thats all.
The Apple Macintosh has evolved graphic design immensely, Do you believe graphic design would be where it is today without it?
I have never worked in a creative environment on PC and am lost within seconds attempting to change a password or save something to an external drive with one, so for me the only creative tool is Mac. My current MA programme has 40 students on it. I am yet to see one person work on a PC.
Due to software and new technologies do you believe the design profession is becoming less respected and more open to non designers?
E.G Build your own website programmes and online tutorials
Thats the toughest question I think the profession is certainly becoming more competitive as I mentioned earlier own a machine own the ability to create. I still believe hard work education and enthusiasm wins over. It's about drive, passion and the love of the subject I don't think these can be faked I'm not confusing this with talent or ability I'm talking about the need to produce. Im not quite certain Graphic Design (commercial Art) will ever have the respect fine Art will. Personally I like the competition the world is so culturally rich i would like to see more people design and the profession expand.
XXX
Have a top Evening :)
On 20 Nov 2010, at 19:11, Emma Corkill wrote:
