Jesus
Is it possible to learn how to draw electronically to become a graphic designer?
I'm a sophomore in high school and I am not really good at drawing. I always admired the people who could draw really cool things either on paper or on the computer. I am going to take art classes to maybe learn how to draw, but Is it possible for me to be able to be a graphic designer without being naturally talented at art? #graphic-design #web-design #graphic-designer #artists #digital-art #game-art #computer-art
4 answers
Andy Wang
Andy’s Answer
Hi Jesus,
I think you're asking a few different questions here.
There are definitely many ways to learn how to draw. Online resources and tutorial videos abound. I personally prefer the classroom setting and getting face to face interaction with peers and instructors. But these days there are so many resources out there online. Search them out and take full advantage of the connected age in which we live.
Graphic designers are not necessarily good at drawing. The primary role of a graphic designer is to use visual language to help communicate ideas. That can cover many aspects, from choosing color palettes, laying out pages or websites, and choosing different fonts to actually drawing or illustrating ideas and images. The primary trait would be to have a good eye and design sense.
And while there are many naturally gifted artists out there, art is just as much about hard work and dedication. If you take classes, practice, and generally take the time to learn and refine your skills it is possible to become a capable artist. It's similar to most skills in that it requires a lot of practice and knowledge to improve.
Eugene Cordell
Eugene’s Answer
I know a few people who were not naturally talented in art, but have made a career out of it. Mainly, study art for now, and move on to theatre design and programming. Take those three, and you'll be versatile in your choice of career: brand identity, typography, web design, game design, special FX makeup, set design, illustrator, logo design, etc!
Needless to say, it's not whether or not you can be a graphic designer you should be asking about, but rather where in graphic design you should excel in?
But to be frank, please learn how to draw, shade, and color before you enter an Art Major. It makes your life MUCH easier. And also, be prepared for competition. There are alot of jobs out there, but so many more in certain fields. Each year shows a fashionable favor to a certain industry, gaming jobs aren't always full, and neither are illustration jobs. It will be open for employment, depending on the season or year. Be ready.
Travis Groom
Travis’s Answer
That said, I did go on to work in Graphic Design for about 15 years. There's much more to Graphic Design than drawing - sure you will need to sketch to get some ideas on paper but they are just concepts. There are many other areas to go into in Graphic Design that do not require technical hand skills. Find the areas of graphic design you love and focus your energies on being the best you can in that realm. You'll likely have to take some drawing classes, but it's only one part of the larger whole.
Gary Petito (Veteran)
Gary’s Answer
Hi,
I would say definitely YES, there are many types of graphic design...graphic design is not just Art and drawing...there are careers in animation, computer aided drafting/design (more techical), painting, architecture, landscape design and so many more. Here is a good link for you on graphic design careers but I would suggest looking at other careers in this area as well:
http://www.straighterline.com/colleges/graphic-design-degree/
Good luck!
Thanks you are very insightful.
Jaime