The Tribune

If you ask a designer whether they consider themselves to be particularly talented at maths, the likely answer will be ‘no’. However, the field of graphic design combines artistic talent with technological savvy to create images and messages that influence all aspects of our daily lives. Pursuing a degree in graphic design requires significant artistic training, yet understanding key math components is also necessary.

Maths is everywhere, even where you would not expect it. I remember, while at school learning algebra and calculus, that many students thought we would never have to ever use this cp in real life. But here’s a ‘News Flash’; maths continually reigns in graphic design. I forever have to work out the size of pages and layouts etc.

A few days ago, a very important question popped up in the middle of a session regarding the correlation of mathematics and graphic design. It went something like this: ‘How is maths important to graphic design and, if it is, how much of it is used in design form?’ It has been a while since anyone has referred this homework question to me, but I took a shot.

Graphic design is not something new. For years, people have been designing labels and packaging for products. But what happened before programmes such as Photoshop came along to make things easier? And why did you even have to use algebra or maths in graphic design to begin with?

Let’s look at it this way: Each logo and custom typeface had to be rough-drafted by hand, and the process of spacing, aligning and centring text or images needed to be done by using a series of algebraic equations.

For example, if you knew your label for a bottle was five inches long, and you had a logo that was two inches long, a set of text that needed to be four inches long, and you needed to include information on the side that was roughly two inches long, you would have to start with the measurements you knew. These can easily be figured out through algebraic equations.

If you intend to prepare any type of structural displays or signs, you will not only need mathematics skills, but those for layout and drawing. The larger structures will also often have architectural or mechanical drawings to obtain the necessary regulatory permits and approvals.

Square footage, resolution, dimensions, product labelling, decals wraps, geometry for sign curves, abstract shapes, box design, layout positioning (especially with logos that require certain spacing specs), and assembly building (catalogues, signs, displays, quantities) are a daily commission, and nothing new.

Some other areas where maths calculations are used include scale and dpi. Graphic designers have to be knowledgeable about dimensions to build anything. For an ad, they need to know width and height of trim (the final page size); bleed (how much of the image does the printer want to run past the edge to be trimmed); and ‘live’ or ‘safe’ area, which is the area the printer guarantees will not be trimmed or lost in the gutter. Maths reigns on and on.

Another advantage to studying fields outside of design is that it makes it much easier when communicating with non-designers or clients on their turf.

While Photoshop offers a ton of alignment, scaling and other positioning tools, it is still necessary to understand how to apply them to the measurements of your page.

For example, if you need to make a three-leaf brochure out of a standard sheet of printer paper, you need to know how to split the paper into thirds. While you may not have to break out your rulers, and calculators, it is still convenient to have a solid mathematical foundation.

Most importantly, if you want to be a designer, learn the fundamental elements of design as well as some art history. My ability to think beyond just the world of pure design has been overwhelming and humbling, as I am constantly amazed by how previous experiences in other areas have become so useful.

Therefore, as a final point, learn how to think and communicate effectively. Study mathematics, English, psychology, marketing and history... whatever catches you. This is important, as in the real world the specifics of your degree will not really matter as much as your ability to think, connect with clients and meet their needs. Until we meet again, ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS’. Be safe and remember to fill your life with memories as opposed to regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

• NB: The columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT THE COLUMNIST: Deidre Marie Bastian is a professionally trained graphic designer/marketing co-ordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc.

She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova South Eastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.