The human brain can be divided into two distinct hemispheres, the left and the right. Scientific study has shown that people are typically left brain or right brain thinkers. That is, they use one half of their brain more dominantly than the other. Those using the left brain are more analytic in their process. Everything is numbers and logic for them. These people are the mathematicians, engineers, etc. Those using the right brain are more holistic in their process. They utilize creativity and spontaneity in their lives. They are the artists, creative writers, etc.

Graphic designers are somewhere in the middle, left with the task of being creative and artistic, yet understanding the science of people and knowing how to design effectively to reach a particular market and how to conform to clients’ needs. Some maintain that graphic designers make order out of chaos, that we are researchers, analysts, and organizers as well as artists, supporting the theory that we use both halves of our brains.

We, as designers, must be scientists and artists at the same time. We are social scientists. We must possess the ability to be creative and artistic, and still be analytical and scientific at the same time. We must understand the needs of the customers and be able to deliver an applicable, creative product.

I am a scientist. I am an artist. I am a graphic designer.