When I was a little girl, one of many things I wanted to be when I grew up, was to be an artist. I filled many notebooks with drawings of made-up cartoon characters, sketches of inventions, and doodles of abstract designs. I also enjoyed drawing fashion models. In addition to designing the clothing and accessories for these models, I would create names and even personalities for them. As I got older, I dabbled with oil painting and other arts and crafts. But I fell in love with graphic design.
Our world is encompassed by elements and principles of design, even in the most inconspicuous ways.
The concept of design is found in a variety of disciplines whether it is in graphics, fashion, or the interior of homes; however, such creativity is not only found on posters, t-shirts, and bedroom walls. It is found in the beautiful wonders of nature and in human life itself. It can be found in everything.
Design is an aesthetic device that pleases the eye. It conjures up interest to something that may normally be considered bland. Art is created through fundamental ideas such as line, shape, texture, and value. Color and lighting can add depth and set a specific mood.
Although expressing oneself is limitless, and creativity is free-spirited—there are still rules, or principles, that can benefit the artist and finished piece of artwork. Utilizing principles such as unity and variety can help achieve harmony and balance in the artist’s vision. Contrast, alignment, repetition, and proximity are additional principles that govern a composition.
How the artist uses positive and negative space can be very effective. Proportion is critical in relation to the sizes and functionality of objects. A design should catch the beholder’s eye. This is achieved with an emphasis or focal point, which can give direction/flow and organize a piece.
The ability to create is incredible. There is such power behind it. The process and methods used to design vary. What I like about art is that you are in control. You can make whatever you want—the way you want. The artwork is a personal and expressive creation. So to me, art is mostly subjective. The artist has his or her own unique vision and style to their work; the viewer of the work has his or her own tastes and opinions. Beauty is defined differently from person to person, and we must look for it in all things and appreciate it.
Art therapy uses artistic creation as a therapeutic means for self-expression. It can help people who seek healing by relieving stress, and improving symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can help to develop self-awareness, address unresolved emotional conflicts, and much more.
Check out my design store on Zazzle! Customized wedding & graduation invitations, holiday greeting cards, and more! Using images from your photo shoots with me (or any other pictures), order prints and create fun products such as t-shirts, coffee mugs, and home decor--with any of my ready-made designs that can be personalized. I also take special requests without pictures, if you have a specific idea in mind and would like me to design it for you. Everything in my store is either hand-painted and then scanned, digitally hand-drawn, or photographed by myself.
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