[rise__above]

I am an artist, and I recently decided that I want to study graphic design. But I have worried that the type of art that graphic design involves isnt 'creative' enough for me. Usually I see symbols, words, and vectors when looking through GD portfolios.

What is Illustration? Is it a completely different course? Can I do cool drawings if I get a GD degree?

I just want to draw. I have a good eye for design, but I want to use my drawing skills too!

Here's an example of the difference between GD and Illstration that I found: (I like the first shirt better)

Illustration:
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1374542313.480674.jpg

Graphic Design:
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1374542412.701447.jpg

My question is: Should I get a degree in GD or do I need to study something else?

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by rise__above

I am an artist, and I recently decided that I want to study graphic design. But I have worried that the type of art that graphic design involves isnt 'creative' enough for me. Usually I see symbols, words, and vectors when looking through GD portfolios.

What is Illustration? Is it a completely different course? Can I do cool drawings if I get a GD degree?

I just want to draw. I have a good eye for design, but I want to use my drawing skills too!

Here's an example of the difference between GD and Illstration that I found: (I like the first shirt better)

Illustration:
Attachment 3387

Graphic Design:
Attachment 3388

My question is: Should I get a degree in GD or do I need to study something else?

Hello, Rise...I commend you on being an artist. I am 62, an artist, former cartoonist/illustrator for a state agency, worked as a studio artist instructor, then as a teacher of art in public schools. During all of this time, I've been producing and selling my own art, which is a bit of a grind, since, like most artists, I am not business-minded.
As for graphic design...you will be working for other people, fulfilling their wants and expectations, also meeting deadlines, deadlines. Lots of pressure.
As for illustration...it would allow more creativity, but are you prepared to be working at another job to make ends meet, submitting work for approval by publishers, maybe having to get an agent to market you?
I don't mean to discourage you about art careers, but it is hard to make it. In fact, graphic design is one of the number 1 least employable positions upon graduation from an institution. Illustration even moreso.
Do some research into these fields and give it more thought. I know this sounds discouraging to an aspiring artist. Just that, I've been there, done that.

[rise__above]

Thank you for the feedback. I plan on meeting with an adviser for my college of choice, so I hope to learn more. I am quite nervous

[growlycat]

I was an illustration major! Still working as a designer, love it!

Illustration is more drawing-related and graphic design deals more in text and symbols, layouts etc. If you prefer drawing and painting to typography, definitely go the illustration route!

[growlycat]

ps feel free to send me a private message and I'd be happy to tell you what careers illustration is good for--not just publishing

If you know the digital side of design, illustration , typography and some coding, you can actually make good money in web, app, and software development. Straight hand-drawn illustration is decidedly tougher but it can be done.

[Perna]

Check this girl's blog out, she wanted the same thing: Becoming An Illustrator

(and these practical steps: http://artbistro.monster.com/benefit...an-illustrator)

[seeker1950]

Rise above...I apologize for sounding so negative regarding your aspirations for art-related education. One should always follow their dreams. I did! and I don't regret it.

[rise__above]

Thank you so much, everyone

[Perna]

Rise_above, you might want to look at other than yes/no, either/or ideas.

I would think about training to write and then being among other writers who might need illustrations. . . for example.

Why artists & illustrators should get a job

[growlycat]

Seeker it was wise to tell her how difficult it can be. Career path can be winding and unpredictable!

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by growlycat

Seeker it was wise to tell her how difficult it can be. Career path can be winding and unpredictable!

"Winding and unpredictable" is true for me! Going back for my M.A. in Art just 10 years ago, I was in classes with some young people who finished their M.A.'s in Art at the same time. One has spent many years thereafter working as a waitress at a pizza establishment, and the other as a handy-person at an art gallery. At least I had my teaching job for security.
I don't mean to discourage anyone from pursuing their dreams. As I said, I don't regret my choice...In fact, it was the ONLY choice I could have ever made and been true to myself. It's just not that easy!

[rise__above]

I think I might go for Web Design. I used to be interested in WD as a career, and I am very good at it. Feel like this would be a much more lucrative and steady career choice.