Art VS Design

Almost everyone will answer with a statement that design in a form of art. However, there really is a difference between art and design. From an article by Norman Potter, he states that before a designer uses his own imaginative ideas, they must be "highly 'problem' conscious... an ability for sorting, ordering and relating information he must bring qualities of judgement and discrimination." Not only do they have to create a design that will fit the clients' needs, they have to have the patience to alter the work however many times it takes to satisfy his or her client. Designers also have to address the client's message in a form of art and therefore "use words constantly and in direct relation to their work."

In contrast, "fine-artist is less dependent on discussion, agreement, letters, visits... who works directly with his materials." For example, a fine-artist may first start off with his own ideas and thoughts about what kind of work he wants to produce. However, this is different for a designer because "designers work with and for other people," and their main goal is to make the clients happy, not for his own liking.

A painter's art piece can be viewed almost as a sentimental piece and something to admire in a museum or an art gallery. But a designer's work can be seen as an advertisement to try and grab people's attention to purchase something. Both forms can be seen as artistic but their meanings behind them are quite different. I believe that the talent within a fine-artist and a designer are not better or worse; they both show an ability to serve an important aspect in society.

posted by Michelle H