I have never contemplated what the differences are between an artist and a designer, so when justifying my position as to which one I consider myself to be, it has intrigued me examining the definitions of both, as I have long considered that they are too closely interlinked to differentiate.
Typically the general definition of a designer is individual/s that exercises a thought out and defined process to meet the requirements and expectations of a client, whilst bringing a creative solution to the design problem. A majority of their work can be bound by limitations from the client so it is important that when limitations occur that they can demonstrate the ability to create the client vision. When there are no limitations then they are free to determine how the end product will be by using their own individual expertise and vision. It is a golden principle that any designer can rationalise and explain their thought process that contributed to the end design.
By definition an artist is not restricted by any set rules or requirements, instead they are bound by their own rules. This enables them to have freedom with their self expression and they master their own vision. They have the ability to convey emotions, thoughts and feelings which can be reflected in their work. Generally they do not ever have to explain how they came up with their ideas as they assert their own individual passion and vision when it comes to their expression.
- This typical Typographical design was used for advertisement for Amazon, although if it was hung in a gallery it could be easily interpreted as art.
With all that said, it has enlightened me, but has still not made me distinguish clearly my own label. My reason is that I believe that there is a thin veil that separates the two. The method, in which I have learnt everything up to now, is moulding me into the style of a designer. I have often had limitations placed on most of my tasks up to present, to simulate what could I could expect in the working world, so I have been responsible for finding the creative solution/s whilst maintaining the clients vision through the detail of my assignment brief/s. I also have had to explain my thought process and reasoning behind my designs through the annotated ideas generation work that I submit for tasks.
Before I put that tag on myself, I think that as a designer at some point I will endeavour to bring an element of artistry in my approach, especially when limitations don’t exist. This is where the subtle similarities form a shroud round a clear identity. I believe that sometimes I will be required to dig deep within and use my own resource of self expression and convey emotions, feelings etc to generate fresh ideas to my designs and that rules can be bent and sometimes even broken. Also society/culture plays a large role in how the end object is interpreted or widely accepted.
My conclusion is that the differences between the two are based on context, therefore I consider myself both artist and designer.
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