Parallel Worlds: Writing and Graphic Design

5:08 PM

I've been thinking about this a lot lately and while it's surely not a new concept (I mean, what is anymore, right?) I have a serious desire to express my feelings about it.

I spent too many years in school and finally graduated with my BFA in Photography/Graphic Design and am currently looking for a "real" full-time design job. Since I've finished school, I've gotten the chance to spend countless hours on my writing. I was always one of those people who "wanted to write a book". Well, now I have. (Insert applause here) While doing both things, I got to thinking about how similar the two careers are. For example...

Dear Awesome Agent/Agency,

I hope that after reading my Query/Cover letter that you will be interested enough to look at my Manuscript/Portfolio. I've spent so much time on it and I've poured my entire heart and soul into it. I've gotten feedback from other Writers/Designers and after endless amounts of editing and tweaking, they've helped me make it something I'm truly proud of. I hope that the first Chapter/Piece grabs you and won't let you go until you reach the last one. Of course, everything in between is still just as awesome, but I know the first and last Chapter/Piece is what you will remember most. I'm looking forward to your call when you decide you absolutely must Represent/Hire me.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

A new and hopeful Artist.

Then let's take a look at some graphic design quotes I love...

Design (writing) is easy. All you do is stare at the screen until drops of blood form on your forehead.

Good design (writing) is all about making other designers (writers) feel like idiots because that idea wasn’t theirs.

I love the comment, “You must love designing (writing) for a living.” At that point I usually start to laugh or break into uncontrollable tears.

Graphic designers (writers) are idea embalmers, loving undertakers preserving bits of data like so many butterflies pinned to felt in a jewel box.

To create a memorable design (story) you need to start with a thought that’s worth remembering.

See what I mean?