Tip #29: The difference between Art and Design

Everyone should know the difference between art and design. Art tries to capture a metaphysical truth about the world. It tries to evoke emotion. It tries to say something in itself.

Design tries to be a crystal goblet—invisibly holding its contents. Design tries to fade into the background, letting the text shine through.

Often, designers are asked to be artists, and artists are no doubt expected to be designers. But there is a difference.

Sometimes, design isn’t enough. Sometimes the work you’re trying to complete, needs to draw attention, needs to evoke emotion, needs to be art. For times like these, it’s important to remember that art has no rules.

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