Digital

Museum Piece


- The introduction of computer design technologies has increased the field of design, allowing the discipline of graphic designer to reach new levels of visual communication.
- The combination of schooled graphic designer traits and designer programs prepares the grounds for new ways of creating visually stimulating work as well as easily conveying information at the same time.
- The poster done by Greiman is an example of a renowned graphic designer using the, at the time of the article, new tools in the digital format as well as her exercised talent in order to produce an award winning piece of design.
- Greiman's effective use of the Paintbox technology led the design field to believe that this new convenience was to become a significant, if not infinite, way of creating good design.
- The productivity of computer technologies as opposed to creating design by hand opens up the creator's field of possibility.  Essentially, when there is leeway for mistake and time to rearrange it without the hassle of doing so by hand, some mistakes can lead to very happy accidents.

Although the article was dated, and the "new" technology in the article is now the primary medium for graphic designers, the fact that the computer has not debased graphic design, or included any instance of work-shy tendencies in the field still remains true.  The computer, as the article implies, is much more than a luxury or an easy way to escape the old, process-based way of putting together a poster.  The design programs, now much more advanced and available (not $500 dollars per hour), have broadened the position of professional designer as well as approach to design.  At one's finger tips is a limitless expanse of tools in which to create good design.  The application of design technologies has created the amateur label for anyone with the programs, but in terms of professionalism, the computer has bestowed upon all who can use Illustrator or Photoshop the ability to create great design on the level of the professionals.  This of course leads critics, not just those of which who are published, but other designers to appreciate good design in a more conceptual manner, for the obstacle of craft has become obsolete.  I also enjoyed the step by step information the article included on Greiman's usage of the Paintbox program and her production process when actually putting the poster together.  I most enjoyed, however, the information regarding the printmaker's process.  It was exciting to hear that the poster was printed by lithography and how he used a process yellow and then a fluorescent with varnish to produce the desired effect on the poster. The combination of digitally designing the poster and then using printmaking techniques to reproduce it was intriguing and also satisfying to a student of both.