This post is an expansion of tip #58 in our post 101 Graphic Design Tips for Business Success.

What’s Your Other Craft Other Than Graphic Design?

Odds are as a talented graphic designer you are also interested in other forms of art. If your heart lies in another craft, powerfully combine your passions to kick life into your designs. Pablo Ferro has created title sequences and theatrical trailers for classics like Thomas Crown Affairs, The Clockwork Orange, and Dr. Strangelove. Watch Ferro’s sequences and you will see the harmony of animation, typography, music and graphics entwined. He is a self-taught animator and often uses hand drawn lettering in his work.

Mix-it-up with music. If you want to work on a fun project with little or no creative restriction, approach a local band and offer up your services. You will get an artistic release, a boost to your portfolio, and possibly free tickets to their next show. Check out the amazing work of Art Chantry and Paula Scher, both got their start designing posters and record cover art. They are also published authors as well. Sometimes it’s simply smart to follow the muse wherever it takes you.

Apply Everything That You Know

If you have a passion for the environment, utilize environmentally friendly ink and recycled paper. Take on clients that have a sustainable conscience. Do you airbrush cars on the side? Apply that technique to an illustration for your next open-minded client. Graffiti artist Doze Green was able to take his work from the subway to clothing lines and live painting performances. The point is that everything you create can benefit from the multi facets of your abilities.

Most great artists are more than one-dimensional. Have the eagerness to apply everything you know and love to your work. Your work will love you back!