Graphic designers and artists are not the same. Artists create things out of their own volition and inspiration, using their own techniques and conveying their own messages. Graphic designers are visual communicators. They communicate the messages of brands, organizations, or other people through graphics or other branding materials that they make. So how do you develop your own graphic design aesthetic? Here are 5 steps to cultivate your design style:
1. Develop your personal point of view
Your approach to design is not the same as everyone else’s. We all have an individual point of view in life. The same can be said when it comes to graphic design aesthetics. Our experiences can inform how we think and what we make. Take some time to reflect on the experiences that shaped you as a person and as a designer. Think about your work and the context in which it is made. Do they influence each other? It may help to write it out in a journal and to revisit the journal as often as you need. Look for patterns and notice the ways your mind has changed over time.
2. Focus on your ideas rather than trends
Trends are temporary. While it might seem like a good idea to follow trends, they go out of style. It is important to brainstorm your own ideas and to build off of them because they are rooted in your perspective. Trust your gut and your perspective. As long as you do this, you will begin to reinforce your point of view as a designer
3. Make things!
Try not to bury your head in your breadwinning work. Make things for fun or to push yourself out of your comfort zone. As creative people, we need to create in order to cultivate our creative practice. We can only see what we’re capable of making if we actually make things!
4. Show your work to other people
Be open to critique and be willing to change your mind. Being receptive to feedback will only help you develop a stronger graphic design aesthetic. You can develop strength in your convictions or be exposed to new perspectives through critique and through discussing your work with other people. Even though it may be a vulnerable thing to do, it will be worth it.
5. Stay true to yourself, but stay open to your perspective changing
Now that you are in touch with your point of view, you should have a better idea of who you are as a designer and what characterizes your graphic design aesthetic. Be consistent with who you are as a designer. Use what you know about yourself to inform your work. With that in mind, stay open to growth and let your perspective evolve. You’re still you, but you can keep things fresh by allowing yourself to grow.
Cultivating a graphic design aesthetic is not a short and easy process. However, it can be achieved through consistency and commitment. It’s about creating a point of view and designing things based off of it. Try to stay away from trends and stay true to yourself. Remember: your aesthetic starts with how you think.