Graphic design

Graphic design is the process of visual communication, and problem-solving through the correct use of typography, space, image and color.

The field is considered a subset of visual communication and communication design, but sometimes the term "graphic design" is used interchangeably with these due to overlapping skills involved. Graphic designers use various methods to create and combine words, symbols, and images to create a visual representation of ideas and messages. A graphic designer may use a combination of typography, visual arts and page layout techniques to produce a final result. Graphic design often refers to both the process (designing) by which the communication is created and the products (designs) which are generated.

Common uses of graphic design include identity (logos and branding), publications (magazines, newspapers and books), print advertisements, posters, billboards, website graphics and elements, signs and product packaging. For example, a product package might include a logo or other artwork, organized text and pure design elements such as images, shapes and color which unify the piece. Composition is one of the most important features of graphic design, especially when using pre-existing materials or diverse elements.

Art and Design Academy

The John Lennon Art and Design Building (formerly the Art and Design Academy) in Liverpool, England houses Liverpool John Moores University's School of Art and Design. It is located at Duckinfield Street in LJMU's Mount Pleasant Campus, immediately adjacent to the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. The six storey building was constructed between 2005 and 2008 at a cost of £27 million. The RIBA award winning John Lennon Art and Design Building was designed by Rick Mather Architects, during construction the contractor was Wates Construction and the structural and services engineer was Ramboll UK. The Building was officially renamed on the 1 July 2013 after John Lennon's widow, Yoko Ono, gave the University her blessing to use the Lennon name in recognition of her husband's links with the College of Art and the City of Liverpool.

The John Lennon Art and Design Building has a gross internal area of 11,608 m² (124,950 sq ft) and contains 175 m² (1,880 sq ft) of public exhibition space, alongside a number of lecture theatres, seminar rooms and a large auditorium. ICT facilities, workshops and a café are also located in the building - which is also available for conference venue and facility hire. The building houses a public gallery and a public café.