Graphics

The history of graphics dates back to prehistoric times when symbols and pictures were the main ways to communicate. Graphics represents any kind of imaginary or real life visuals such as drawings, photographs, line art, diagrams, symbols, maps, etchings, technical drawings or designs made on any surface like paper, wall, canvas or computer. Graphics are used for various purposes such to convey messages, simplify textual information, organize or entertain. They can be black and white, grayscale, or colored; with or without text; and simple or complicated.

Graphics is not only an art and painting form to enhance documents but an important accessory. It makes text lively and more understandable. Graphics add value to documents by clarifying, simplifying and illustrating contents written in text and attract the interest of readers. Graphics find use in newspapers, magazines, technical drawings, financial charts, advertising, educational material, presentations, online material, CDs, design work, computer games, and more. The study and use of graphics is taught in detail in graphic design courses and such professionals are known as graphic designers.

Graphics can be created from hand drawings, computer programs or photography. Many readymade graphics are available for use depending on terms and conditions. Graphics can also be scanned from printed material. Graphics can be used for small school, home or office projects as well as in graphic design studios by graphic designers. Computerized graphics can be static as well as animated. Animated graphics are much in demand for clipart, bullets, backgrounds, websites, e-cards and films. Computerized graphics are available in various file formats like JPEG and BMP and used depending on the end product and hard disk space they occupy. For websites or emails, formats like JPEG are used, which occupy less space and thus do not hamper the speed of downloading. For print material, heavier file sizes can be used as they will result in sharper prints and retain fineness while manipulating sizes. It is the age of computers and so graphic design is mostly done using software packages. Software programs also allow beautiful special effects which may not be possible otherwise.

Thus, we see that graphics are an indispensable form of art which not only beautify but are a powerful means of visual representations. ‘A picture speaks a thousand words’ is what we all know and appreciate but graphics must be utilized sensibly to realize their full potential.