Design and Natural History Illustration
Design
Graphic design is concerned with the visual environment. It is an intellectual, technical and creative activity. It is focused on all aspects of the production of images, from analysis and presentation to distribution and reception. Graphic design creates visual solutions to communication problems. It is an exciting area of research and study because of the increased importance of graphic design in the communication mix of an online world.
Design is a strategic process that is more than the production of artefacts. It uses visual mediums to enable communication within desired parameters whether this is across cultures or to a specifically targeted audience.
ICOGRADA (International Council of Graphic Design Associations) defines a graphic designer as "One who has the artistic sensibility, skill and experience and/or training professionally to create designs or images for reproduction by any means of visual communication", Articles of Association of the International Council of Graphic Design Associations, Sep 18, 1984.
Study in Design
In the Bachelor of Visual Communication Design undergraduate degree program at the University of Newcastle, there are core components that address problem-solving, creativity and technical expertise. The program develops the student's understanding of the products, services and goals of graphic design and an understanding of the competitive market and targeting of audiences and how this translates into visual solutions through the manipulation and utilisation of form, colour, typography and imagery. Students develop a visual sensitivity and vocabulary for use in the problem solving activity.
Advanced study and specialisation in visual communication is available through the honours program and also through Masters and PhD options.
Career Opportunities
Graphic Designers and Visual Communicators find employment in an enormous variety of industries and organisations. However, there are a number of careers and professional fields that are closely associated with such a set of skills:
| Print Design | Advertising |
| Commercial Illustration | Multimedia |
| Corporate Identity Design | Marketing and Branding |
| Packaging | Typography |
| Studio Photography | Animation |
| Digital Interface Design |
Positions in these fields can be found in large companies with their own inâhouse design units or studios solely dedicated to design projects, right through to small design boutiques and specialist businesses. Organisations such as television networks, print bureaus, internet service providers, magazines, newspapers and other visual media companies depend heavily on the skills of graphic designers and provide a diverse range of opportunities and experiences.
Natural History Illustration
Natural history illustration is a flexible and diverse discipline that seeks to observe, record and visually interpret the environment. Bringing together three main subject areas - art, science and the environment - natural history illustration is an opportunity for you to combine your interests in these areas and launch a rewarding career. Scientific Study.
Art
Natural history illustration uses a combination of traditional illustration techniques, multimedia and visual imaging to represent the natural environment in creative and innovative ways. Central to this is sketching, photographing and collecting specimens in the field, and the development of the drawing and technology skills required to work as a professional illustrator.
Science
The difference between natural history illustration and other art forms lies in the meticulous attention to detail and scientific accuracy that the discipline demands. Whether observing a specimen in the field or studying it under a microscope in the studio, natural history illustrators must produce an accurate representation of the subject as well as a beautiful image. This commitment to scientific truth makes natural history illustration uniquely suited to visually support the sciences.
Environment
With the increasing awareness of global environmental issues, there has never been a time when the recorders and interpreters of the natural environment are most needed. Natural history illustrators support the role of scientists by clarifying and communicating scientific findings visually, allowing the information to reach a far wider audience.
If you have a passion for science, ecology and the environment, and an interest in their visual representation, why not consider a career in one of the diverse fields opened up by the Bachelor of Natural History Illustration.
