Iconography is a visual language used to represent features, functionality, or content. Icons are meant to be simple, visual elements that are recognized and understood immediately. Users of a particular platform are typically already accustomed to and understand these standard icons.

Basically, any visual depiction that is used to convey cultural or historical context or symbolic meaning represents an example of iconography.

1. Imagery of food specific to a certain region is an example of iconography.
2. Countries have symbols including birds, animals and plants.
3. Iconography includes the use of flowers.

Iconography, the science of identification, description, classification, and interpretation of symbols, themes, and subject matter in the visual arts. The term can also refer to the artist’s use of this imagery in a particular work.

In summary, the 10 main rules of iconography are:

1. Make it symbolic and meaningful.
2. You’ve heard it: Keep it simple.
3. Be intentional and thoughtful.
4. Make sure it works in different sizes.
5. Keep uniformity in mind.
6. Vectors only, please!
7. Only use colors when necessary, and do so carefully.
8. It helps to know basic geometry.

Graphic design is the art and profession of using visual compositions to solve problems and communicate ideas through typography, imagery, color and form. While illustration focuses on creative interpretation, graphic design is all about communication with its target audience.

Comparing Graphic Designers to Illustrators Both graphic designers and illustrators work with images to construct visual displays for clients. Graphic designers create layouts using computer software, while illustrators may draw or paint images and upload them to make digital copies.

An illustrator is an artist who creates two-dimensional images for various companies and industries, such as fashion design, children’s books, magazines, medical manuals, web sites, technical designs and advertising.

Many graphic design undergraduate programs require three to four credits of math as part of degree completion. These courses can include traditional math subjects, such as algebra or calculus.

With time, effort and dedication, it is very possible to teach yourself to become a graphic designer. Some of the steps involced include: Learn how to draw: You cannot design if you cannot communicate your designs, therefore learning how to draw by hand or by computer, is a must.

These are the 9 most important first steps you need to take as a beginner to teach yourself graphic design:

1. Find your motivation.
2. Get passionate about design.
3. Learn the principles of design.
4. Get started with graphic design software.
5. Find and study design resources.
6. Look for inspiration.
7. Start working on a project.

You must put in your best – your determination, passion, vigor, – to stand a chance of soaring high.

1. Join design bodies and be a volunteer if possible.
2. Get internships.
3. Work for charities.
4. Send fan mail.
5. Support a network of peers.
6. Exploit your other art-related skills.
7. Have an online presence.
8. Be nice, be humble, be bold.

5 golden rules for getting your first design job

1. Shine in an internship. Once you’ve completed your design degree and have crafted a great portfolio, it’s natural to feel you’ve earned your right to a salaried role.
2. Apply for the right jobs.
3. Nail the interview.
4. Work in-house.
5. Don’t run back to study.

It’s your choice how you want to learn, how much time you are able to give to learning and how much you want to get yourself a job. Though, ultimately, the time it takes to become a graphic designer can be anywhere between around six months to five years.

Best Free Graphic Design Classes Overview

1. Skillshare.
2. Alison.
3. Coursera (more in-depth)
4. Udemy.
5. Canva.
6. Shaw Academy.