The Tribune

It is often said that graphic design is, by and large, a boys' club. Many believe it has not always had the best reputation for gender equality, but we should all be on an even playing field when it comes to artistic talent and knowledge.

John Gray, a famous American philosopher and relationship counsellor, wrote a book with a title that has been much talked about recently: Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus. If you read this book carefully you will understand one global truth: Men and women, in general, are different in similar ways. Does this include designers, and does their work differ not only by style and ability, but also by gender?

Men are hunters by nature and, in prehistoric times, they were charged with catching prey for their tribe in order for it to survive. The stereotype suggests that men should earn money and be strong for their families' sake. Male designers reflect all this. Designs, created by men, are powerful and capable of earning money for their owners.

They are warriors, and want to create designs that are not simply contending but winning, which is perhaps why graphic design was considered a man's world.

Looking back historically, it is a common narrative that women spent many decades trying to make their mark, especially within already-established businesses, which were often founded by men.

It was documented that Germans had a special slogan for the female role in society, which included the rule of 3 Ks (Kinder, Küche, Kirche), and is translated as "children, kitchen, church". Times have changed: Kitchen is no longer a woman's place.

And the graphic design industry is seeing many more women not only taking on leading roles in existing agencies, but also establishing their own businesses or successful freelance careers.

Female designers have come a long way, as I have seen amazement on clients' faces when they were told the creative director was the 40 year-old in the skirt, not the grey-haired guy in the suit.

I must declare that women designers have now become very confident and brave, and have decided to set their own trends. Those who are making an impact are pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to take the lead.

I have further observed that female designers are attentive to detail, multi-taskers and tend to be influenced by their emotions. They began to make waves at the start of the 20th century, and early forms of graphic design played a big part in this.

Male and female designers are completely different in their attitude towards creative work. Male designers are much more decisive and confident in decisions they make, so it is easier for their clients to resolve basically all issues easily.

As for "some" women, they are rather spontaneous and tend to follow their heart, which directs their passion. Despite the multitude of mixed perceptions, my personal belief is that the issue of gender is now obsolete, as both women and men are playing an equally significant role in shaping the world of graphic and web design as we know it today. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT COLUMNIST: Deidre 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 Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.