Inside into the World of a Graphic Artist

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* What is your job title and what industry do you work in? How many years of experience do you have in this field?

I have been working as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator since 2004. I am currently self-employed and take on work from a variety of private clients, including some in the publishing industry. Before taking the plunge, I worked for two years as the graphic artist for a local screen printer and at a small private college for four years prior.

* How would you describe what you do? What does your work entail? Are there any common misunderstandings you want to correct about what you do?

As a graphic designer, I am responsible for creating interesting and recognizable logos, product designs and other artwork for clients. I also lay out publications so that they’re readable and appealing to the viewer. This requires close familiarity with a variety of desktop publishing, photo manipulation and graphics software programs, as well as knowledge of design and printing standards.

I have to be familiar with the inks and techniques my clients’ printers use, as well as the most common sizes, formats and styles. It’s important to be able to adjust my work for the intended audience, too; a young, technologically-savvy viewer has different design expectations than an older person.

Many people think that graphic designers and artists spend all their time on creative work, or get complete control over the process. Really, the job involves a lot less genius and a lot more careful study and negotiating with the client.

* On a scale of 1 to 10 how would you rate your job satisfaction? What might need to change about your job to unleash your full enthusiasm?

I really enjoy working as a graphic designer, and my job satisfaction has increased significantly since I went freelance. Working for myself gives me control over the structure of my day and what kind of work I do when. Freelancing isn’t entirely fun and games, though; I have to solicit my own clients, maintain my own price structure and collect fees myself.

* If this job moves your heart - how so? Ever feel like you found your calling or sweet spot in life? If not, what might do it for you?

Art has been my calling as long as I can remember. I’ve always wanted to have an art and design-related job, so freelancing is ideal. I’d prefer to spend more time on my own work, but am not to the point where art sales can make up the whole of my income.

* Is there anything unique about your situation that readers should know when considering your experiences or accomplishments?

I do have a slightly unusual background for a designer, since I studied art but didn’t learn a lot of career information in school. My school’s art program was more focused on fine art than commercial fields. That means that while I have a degree in Studio Art and Creative Writing, I actually got most of my design-related training on the job.

* How did you get started in this line of work? If you could go back and do it differently, what would you change?

I originally got started in design through a high school clerical position. I designed simple brochures and flyers for the school system. When I entered college, I was able to use that experience to apply for a part-time position with the school’s Public Affairs department. If I had the chance to do things differently, I think I would put together a more focused portfolio and really study the industry before jumping in.

* What did you learn the hard way in this job and what happened specifically that led up to this hard-learned lesson?

One lesson I ended up learning the hard way is that you can’t be sloppy in this industry. When it comes to design, you have to be very precise. I had several jobs that needed to be redone because the specifications were close, but not exact to the client’s print needs.

* What is the single most important thing you have learned outside of school about the working world?

One of the most important things I’ve learned outside of classes is how much you need to rely on your own background knowledge. A lot of people in the professional world don’t know as much as you might think, including your supervisors. That means it’s important for me to rely on my own knowledge and double-check any client or supervisor specifications to make sure they’re correct.

* Why do you get up and go to work each day? Can you give an example of something that really made you feel good or proud?

I start my workday every day because I enjoy putting together a useful creative project. For instance, there’s a lot of satisfaction in making a drawing or layout that really does what a customer needs it to do.

* What kind of challenges do you handle and what makes you really want to pull your hair out?

One of the biggest challenges in freelance design is managing customers and getting work. Often, I end up in a feast or famine situation where you have either too much work or none.

* How stressful is your job? Are you able to maintain a comfortable or healthy work-life balance?

Design work can be pretty stressful when I’m close to a deadline or have had trouble finding clients, but it’s relatively easy to keep the work from taking over everything. I do find that it’s important to take scheduled breaks; it’s good for my mental health and prevents RSIs.

* What’s a rough salary range for the position you hold? Are you paid enough and/or happy living within your means?

Graphic design salaries can vary a lot, with some positions paying up to $50,000 or $60,000. I am at the lower end of the salary range and make between $15,000 and $25,000 depending on the year. However, I maintain no debt, have no dependents and live relatively comfortably.

* How much vacation do you take? Is it enough?

Freelancing doesn’t encourage me to take formal vacations, but it does allow for plenty of short, informal breaks. It’s easy to take an afternoon off if I’m willing to do the work later in the day or work harder the next day.

* What education and skills do you need to get hired and succeed in this field?

A lot of graphic design positions now require a college degree in the subject and previous experience. You don’t always need this kind of background, however, especially as a freelance designer. What’s more important is knowledge of the field and its standards, a good background in the appropriate computer programs and a strong portfolio.

* If you could write your own ticket, what would you like to be doing in five years?

Ideally, if I had my way, I’d be doing the exact same job in five years, but with steadier work and a higher hourly rate. In a dream world, I’d also have someone to fill out all my paperwork so I could spend more time on creative projects.