A graphic designer's job is one of the few art forms that is often unexamined yet experienced daily. Their work is present in the food we eat, the beds we sleep in, and even in this very statement. The font chosen for this text is the result of months of meticulous effort by a graphic designer who crafted this typeface (and its various styles, such as $¥мßø|s and CAPS). In my own work, I strive to create something that is rich in meaning and detail yet designed to be appreciated only at the surface level while still being utilized to its fullest potential.

 

Growing up, I relied on many designs that aided my understanding due to my disabilities. These designs were subtle yet incredibly helpful. This is why I do this work: to provide guidance for others in a complicated world.

 

Otl Aicher is my greatest inspiration, and I believe he is an unsung hero in the field of graphic design. While he may not be as well-known as other designers like Saul Bass, Aicher made a significant impact on graphic design with his font, Rotis. This typeface is notable for its great legibility combined with diverse designs. One of his most recognized contributions, which many see every day but never realize who made it, is the pictograms he revolutionized for the 1972 Munich Olympics. Aicher thoughtfully considered how design would manifest in the physical world, and it is used everywhere today.

 

I prefer design work in a physical format, such as packaging and posters, rather than solely in a digital form. Physical designs require greater care to be effective. In my work, I strive to balance efficiency with aesthetics and encourage simplicity. For instance, in designing my journal, "Clearing," I made sure to have just the right line thickness to allow visibility without obstruction. This allows viewers who have vision impairment to see the lines clearer but allows the lines to not obstruct, creating flow-like doodles. I take pride in my designs, as it's these small details that make design work significant for others, especially for individuals with disabilities.

 

That brings me to the real question. What makes graphic design so important to me? The silent help I can give people without them ever having to worry. I dream of leaving such a silent mark on the world. Never to be remembered but to forever be appreciated.