Of course, I did lots of what would be called graphic design now, what used to be called commercial art.
Leonard Baskin
Leonard Baskin sheds light on the evolving nature of visual communication in his statement about “commercial art” now referred to as graphic design. This article explores the historical progression of the field, from its origins in promoting products through art to the broader range of creative expression it encompasses today. The transition from commercial art to graphic design reflects changing perceptions, technologies, and practices within the field, ultimately shaping our visual culture and the way we convey ideas.
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Meaning of Quote – Of course, I did lots of what would be called graphic design now, what used to be called commercial art.
In his statement, “Of course, I did lots of what would be called graphic design now, what used to be called commercial art,” author Leonard Baskin sheds light on the evolving nature of the field of visual communication. Today, we commonly refer to the process of creating visual content for various purposes as graphic design, but in the past, it was known as commercial art. Baskin’s words invite us to explore the historical progression of this artistic discipline and the significant changes it has undergone.
To fully comprehend the quote’s implications, it is essential to delve into both terms: graphic design and commercial art. Graphic design refers to the practice of creating visual content to convey messages effectively. This can include designing logos, advertisements, posters, websites, and other forms of visual communication. On the other hand, commercial art refers to art created for commercial purposes, such as advertising, packaging, or illustrations for publications.
Examining the quote from a historical standpoint, we can see that Baskin’s use of the term “commercial art” highlights the art form’s origins in the business world. In the early 20th century, art became increasingly commercialized as companies recognized the power of visual communication to attract consumers. Artists skilled in creating appealing and persuasive imagery began to find employment in the advertising industry. Their work, known as commercial art, aimed to promote products or services and encourage consumer engagement.
Over time, the field evolved, gradually shifting its focus from solely promoting products to encompassing a broader range of creative visual expression. This transformation gave birth to graphic design as we understand it today. The term “graphic design” encompasses not only commerce-related art but also includes various elements of visual communication, such as typography, layout, color theory, and user experience design.
One significant factor contributing to the change and rebranding from commercial art to graphic design is the shift in technology. With the advent of computers and digital tools, artists gained access to new mediums for creating visual content. This technological advancement revolutionized the industry, significantly impacting both the art-making process and the ways in which graphic designers interact with clients and audiences.
In the pre-digital era, commercial artists often relied on traditional techniques such as hand-drawn illustrations, paintings, and printmaking to create their designs. These physical art forms required meticulous craftsmanship, skill, and mastery of traditional artistic principles. However, with the rise of digital design software and computer-aided tools, artists were able to experiment with new techniques, achieve greater precision, and explore a vast range of creative possibilities.
The shift from commercial art to graphic design also brought about a change in perception and recognition of the profession. While commercial art was primarily seen as a means to sell products, graphic design emerged as an artistic discipline in its own right, deserving of admiration and appreciation. Today, graphic designers are celebrated for their ability to communicate ideas effectively through aesthetically pleasing visual compositions.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all forms of graphic design fall under the commercial art umbrella. Graphic design has expanded beyond the realm of advertising, embracing fields such as web design, user interface design, user experience design, and even artistic expression for its own sake. The term “commercial art” does not fully encapsulate the breadth and diversity of contemporary graphic design practices.
Despite these evolved definitions, the foundation of graphic design remains rooted in its historical ties to commercial art. The skills and principles developed during the commercial art era continue to shape and influence graphic design practices. While the tools and techniques have evolved, the core objective of visually communicating a message effectively remains a common thread in both commercial art and modern graphic design.
In conclusion, Leonard Baskin’s quote invites us to reflect on the evolution of graphic design and its connection to the historical concept of commercial art. The transitioning terminology from commercial art to graphic design highlights the changing perceptions, technologies, and practices within the field. As we embrace the digital era, graphic design continues to flourish, encompassing a wide range of creative possibilities beyond its commercial origins. By recognizing the rich history and ever-evolving nature of graphic design, we can appreciate the immense impact it has on our visual culture and the way we communicate ideas in the modern world.
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