The Soul of a Modern Artist
March 14, 2010
Concept.
Line.
Color.
Layout.
Juxtaposition.
Contrast.
Texture.
Movement.
Dominance
Space.
These are crucial elements of design fundamentals.
A great concept can inspire nations. The revelation of a breakthrough concept is the light that we as artists wish to shed upon the viewer of our work. If our audience walks away refreshed, contemplative, reflective, and even changed; we have succeeded. We have made our impact.
Today artists have so many amazing media choices. We have the tools that Michelangelo used to paint the Sistine Chapel and sculpt David at our disposal. And for us graphic artists we have the computer that led to an explosion of tools and effects.
As modern graphic artists, we rely on the computer, design software, and often times ink to produce our work. We have made production so efficient. The artist has regressed from a dynamic societal figure. In the commercial world, we are a skilled producer. We are a master of software that can limit our expression and creativity. The bureaucracies that be sometimes overlook our creative capacities and just focus on our delivery as skilled workers. We have libraries of pre-made symbols and shapes to make production move along quicker. These tools are wonderful and yes we can still be expressive as digital artists. But can we be expressive and profitable is the reality that many artists have to face. Sometimes within the filters, drop shadows, and effects one could legitimately wonder…
Where has the concept gone?
We can contemplate as to what is the deeper meaning of a piece is. Sometimes we find out there isn’t much there. Other times it’s clear as can be and we have purpose and are committed to a project. We can also wonder what am I communicating to my audience. I often wonder if some artists are even thinking of their audience.
Also in this current digital age, it is easier to copy than be original. It is easier to steal an idea rather than work many hours at getting that just right idea. Now there are scanners and the internet to assist in thieving. Originality takes time. Concepts take time. Concepts need time to develop, time to grow, and time to revise through the input of others. With the growth of the concept comes the richness and depth of a design.
We, as artists, need to stay in touch with design fundamentals. As the resources at our disposal grows so must our commitment to the core of good design. Yes, one must embrace change and constantly evolve. But we must remember the road that has been taken to get us where we are today.
