Both are seen as acts of human creativity. Yet, art and graphic design have long been regarded as related but different disciplines. The former celebrates personal expression and is sometimes highly subjective in nature. In contrast, the latter has traditionally been in the service of a client and is expected to deliver objective results, be it communicating a message or delivering a service that leads to positive outcomes. Design even used to be called “commercial art”—a definition that continues to sum up the divide for many.
How then should we approach HE WRITES STRAIGHT WITH CROOKED LINES, an exhibition of artworks by renowned Singapore graphic designer Hanson Ho?