The Universal Necessity of Graphic Design

On service-based and self-initiated design

Something I love about graphic design is its universal necessity. Every industry under the sun has a need for it, going back to—and before—the literal branding of cows. Where there is language, and an exchange of money, there is need for graphic design. This allows a designer to follow their interests outside of design. Love food? You can design for restaurants or food companies. Cinema? Movies need props designed. Sports? Teams need branding. I could go on. This is why I design books and work for a public library.

I love it, but this ubiquity only exists as a result of design being in service to those other industries. It is important but inherently secondary; graphic design is a perpetual Garfunkel.¹

I think this is why so many designers and design studios work on independent and self-initiated projects. There is nothing wrong with a career of service, but I believe the best, most interesting design—or maybe it’s art—comes out of practices that express opinions, embrace a position of authorship, and know when (and when not) to do so. These are people who transcend the label “graphic designer.”

But not everyone is cut out for this kind of practice. I’m trying to figure out if I am. Maybe writing this is a good start.

1. For the young’ns reading: Simon & Garfunkel