Graffiti vs. Graphic Design

I've always had a question as to whether or not Graffiti is/could be considered a form of graphic design.  Graffiti, as we all know, is an art form who's main focus is the creation of graphical elements through the use of spray paint.  The origins of Graffiti go way back in history before people could give it a name.  One of the earliest forms is a caricature of a Pompeiian politician in the Ancient times.  

Typographical elements are a key part to Graffiti work.  Although considered to be illegal, because its defective nature, Graffiti often combines similar elements that exist in the world of Graphic Design.  Many of the issues that a typographer would have to address are the same ones that a tag artist would have to consider.  

The only outstanding difference between Graffiti art and Graphic Design is the readability of the typographical elements.  The main focus in Typography is to create a composition where the words are readable, legible, memorable, and scaleable.  I tag artist has some leg room when it comes to those issues.  

So, what do you think?  Could Graffiti be considered a form of Graphic Design?

Typographica

Typographica is the title of a web page that I recently discovered. It is simply a journal dedicated to type. The page is updated and edited by a Stephen Coles and amongst the articles listed are several topics pertaining to popular type and the use of type. It is a great web page/ resource for anyone who would like to keep up with the favorite listings of type throughout the early part of the decade. Although there are some interesting facts, the page could use a little more animation and life. But, the information is strong enough and worth the while to check out. The page contains several links to other font sites in the case that you see a font that you would like to purchase.


Check it out:

http://typographica.org/

The Critique

The critique of the personal logos was a truly fruitful one. I, for one, must apologize for not contributing more to these blogs. Anyhow, the main focuses in creating the logos were to create marks that were legible, scale-able, and unique. The most difficult aspect of creating a mark that would some up ones character into two letter-forms was/is creating a mark that is simple and to the point. Often times, a designer might be tempted to create elaborate works of art when a logo, especially when dealing with treatments that represent corporate identities, should be simplistic in design and unique in composition. Many of my classmates had created logo marks that fit the mold of creating these logos. I found that the purpose of the project was dealt with in individualistic ways, yet the creativity of them didn't overwhelm the corporate aspect.

Logos are seen everywhere. They are often the most taxing pieces of design-work that a designer must create. Gaining a foothold in composing logos is a skill I can appreciate.