The best designers are artists

Integrate Art & Creativity

As a leader and designer, I've come to realse that while design and art are two distinct subjects, there is nuance between the two that should be acknowledged. While design is created to solve specific human centred problems, art is created to elicit subjective feelings. However, the separation line between the two is not always clear-cut.

Designers are often problem solvers, tasked with creating solutions to a wide range of challenges. Whether they're designing a new product or creating a new brand identity, designers must consider a wide range of factors, from usability and functionality to customer requirements. They must be able to think critically and creatively, analysing problems from multiple angles and developing innovative outcomes that meet their clients' needs.

While not all designers may consider themselves artists, I do believe that the best designers I’ve worked with incorporate a bit of artistry into their work. For these designers, art serves as the secret ingredient that elevates their work so it transcends from the rest.

For these designers, art serves as the secret ingredient that elevates their work so it transcends from the rest. It's the inclusion of personality, life experience and taste that makes their work unique and captivating.

Be inspired

One of the ways in which designers can incorporate artistry into their work - and central to my design process -  is through their use of creativity, insight and imagination: drawing inspiration from the symbolic, art, nature, history and esoteric to create memorable experiences that inspire, evoke and capture attention.

Ultimately, the best designers are those who are able to strike a balance between their roles as problem solvers and artists.

They understand the importance of infusing a bit of artistry into their work, and it's what keeps them passionate and creative. It's that feeling of magic and alchemy that they are able to bring to their work, which sets them apart from the rest.