Graphic Design and Illustration Online Learning

Graphic Design and Illustration Online Learning – Interesting Facts about the Graphic Design Industry

Even though you’ve probably never thought about it before, graphic design is all around you in everyday life. From the billboards you see in town, to the designs you see on the sides of buses, every logo, package, poster, book cover, background, and more besides, has to come from somewhere, or someone, and that someone is a graphic designer.

As we become more tech reliant, it should come as no surprise to learn that more people, young, middle aged, and even considered elderly, are getting into graphic design as a career. The great thing about studying to become a graphic designer is the fact that graphic design courses can now be held online so you get flexibility to study where and when you like.

Graphic design and illustration online learning courses are selling out fast, so the best advice we can offer today is to sign up sooner, rather than later, to secure your spot on the course. But why is graphic design so popular nowadays, and has this always been the case? Here are several interesting facts about the graphic design industry.

There will be an increasing demand for graphic designers before 2025

As hard to believe as it may be, we’re nearly into 2022 now, and as the years pass by, one of the most evident things is the fact that technology is going to play an integral role in society for the foreseeable future.

Graphic design and illustration courses are selling out fast because more people and businesses need graphic designers.

Although nobody can predict the future, current evidence suggests that the demand for graphic designers will increase well into 2025, if not further. Over the last 5 years, the demand for graphic designers has increased by more than 13% and that number will be even higher by 2025.

If you’re thinking of getting into the industry, now is the time to learn because your skills and services could be very valuable indeed.

The term ‘Graphic Design’ was first used in 1922

Speaking of 2022, next year will mark the 100th anniversary of the term ‘graphic design’, but where did it originate?

Back in 1922, a designer by the name of William Addison Dwiggins first coined this term in reference to his designs, which he had drawn out and written down. His designs were literally graphics, hence the term ‘graphic design’.

Dwiggins didn’t just use the term for his finished creations however, he used it to cover the entire design process from start to finish. Cool, huh?

Graphic designers no longer need to study for years

In the 1990s, if you wanted to become a graphic designer, you needed to go to university and study for 4 years before you got your degree. Nowadays however, things are different.

Even though many graphic designers do go to university to study, thanks to graphic design and illustration online courses now being readily available, people have to freedom to learn and master graphic design in their own time, and on their own terms.

While you can’t expect to sign up for a graphic design and illustration online course and become a qualified designer in a matter of weeks, if you do put the work in you can qualify much sooner than 4 years.

Graphic design offers you the chance to be your own boss

If you’re like countless other Brits, and individuals in general for that matter, and you’re sick and tired of making somebody else rich while getting no praise or appreciation in the process, why not train to become a graphic designer?

Graphic design is great because, while there are plenty of marketing companies and design companies that offer amazing career opportunities, you also have the freedom to go freelance if you wish and to become self-employed.

Being self employed is tough, but it is also rewarding too, and there is no finer feeling than being your own boss and working to make you rich, rather than somebody else.

The world’s first watermarks can be traced back to the 1200s

As a graphic designer, one of the first things you be taught when you sign up for a graphic design and illustration online course is how to create watermarks, and why they’re so important.

In an age where plagiarism is rife, and where work can be copied with a simple screenshot, protecting your designs and your work is essential, and a simple watermark is all that is needed.

Watermarks may be useful these days when people can take screenshots and screengrabs with the push of a couple of buttons, but they’re certainly not a new concept. Experts have found evidence to suggest that the world’s first watermark can be traced all the way back to 1282.

Back then, the watermarks were used for the same reasons they are now, which is to protect original works from counterfeiting and plagiarism, just like they are now.

Skilled graphic designers can make very good money

Let’s face it, even though graphic design is about a passion for design and creativity, passion doesn’t pay the bills which is why it’s important to find a career that pays well and offers you financial security.

Graphic designs who are skilled and who gain a good reputation for themselves can potentially make very good money, and who wouldn’t want that? If you’re looking for a well paying career that offers you creative freedom and financial security, graphic design could be just the ticket.

At entry level, annually designers could make up to £20K. A good quality, skilled, and experienced graphic designer however, could make upwards of £55K per year.