There is a lot of scope in the graphic design industry in India, liz Noble tells Deebashree Mohanty
What comes under Graphics ArtIJ
It covers a huge range of disciplines. There are four key areas to explore — graphics, motion graphics, advertising and illustration. One learns how to turn new and creative ideas into memorable designs. There are opportunities to work in a wide range of disciplines. Many businesses, for example, might employ a graphic designer to produce their advertising and marketing materials, or one might set up his own graphic design agency.
What is the mark of a good graphic designerIJ
They have to be innovative and should be able to think laterally. They must consider different ways to address problems. It is important to have a strong eye for detail and an intrigue about what catches peoples’ attention. One needs to be inquisitive and realise the potential impact that a good design can have on a business or organisations’ ability to communicate their message well.
What is in it for studentsIJ
The creative industry is huge and there are many opportunities for those who are committed and talented in graphic design. Many of our graduates join established and successful design companies in the UK and overseas and others have gone onto establish their own advertising or graphic design agencies. Sheffield is a strong centre of creative design, with a large number of creative agencies and organisations now well-established in the city. Many Sheffield Hallam lecturers are actively involved in design or maintain strong links with the industry. We have an in-house packaging design consultancy called Design Futures which works on projects with national and internationally recognised brands.
What’s your take on the graphic designing industry in IndiaIJ
During my recent visit to Delhi, I was able to gain some insight into the design activity in India. I would really like to return to Delhi at some point to build on this knowledge.
Tell us about the motive behind British Council’s Art and Design MissionIJ
My role was to be part of an expert team of creative and international development staff from Sheffield Hallam to represent design education in the UK. In the short time we had in Delhi, we were able to demonstrate the rich ways in which we work. Much of what we did was practical and designed to encourage lateral thinking — we like to encourage learning through doing.
There seems to be some exciting opportunities in place and scope for more development in India. I’m sure there’s a wealth of activity in design that is yet to be discovered.
Tell us about the courses offered at Sheffield Hallam University
The university offers a wide range of courses in the area of design. We offer both undergraduate and postgraduate courses as well as courses which focus on a specific kind of design, such as MA design (Fashion) or MA design (packaging) as well as MDs graphic design.
What are the modules covered in the graphic design courseIJ
In our MA design (graphics) course, students mainly focus on individual project work. We work with our students to propose an area for investigation and complete practical, theoretical and creative work around this area. One can also study two modules in research methods for art and design and creativity, innovation and professionalism. Students on our graphic design courses also have access to a huge range of creative resources.
They can take advantage of facilities such as 3D printing for rapid prototyping, state-of-the-art hardware and software, well-equipped workshops and our award-winning learning centre featuring a specialist art, design and media library and extensive online resources.