The graphic design workforce in Ghana: a case study of Asafo, Kumasi. Issue 1 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Okyere, Mark
• Is Part Of: Communication design. Volume 5:Issue 1/2(2017)
• Page Start: 183
• Page End: 202
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: Graphic design -- Asafo -- Ghana -- design education; Graphic arts -- Research -- Periodicals; 741.605
• DOI: 10.1080/20557132.2017.1398926
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2055-7132

Abstract

Abstract: This article describes a qualitative case study of the graphic design workforce of non-formally trained graphic designers (NFTGD) on the graphic design industry in Asafo, Kumasi. Non-formal, in this case, means non-experts or non-professionals in the field of graphic design. The data collected from respondents were Ghanaians working professionally as graphic designers in Asafo, Kumasi. Ten participants were interviewed on the subject of graphic design. Based on these interviews, common themes such as, production, training of the designer, client relationships, and end-user themes emerge. The results show that NFTGDs now constitute about 82% of the graphic design workforce in Asafo. The results further suggest that the influence of these designers on the design industry at Asafo, Kumasi is due to cheap and affordable pricing, which has resulted in a shift toward an increased client-base for non-formally trained designers. In responses, this creates opportunities for graphic design education to focus on enhancing the abilities of the participants. The study's findings suggest that the high speed of working, in combination with very limited resources to develop new designs are the cause of copyright related issues. 'Borrowing inspiration' from internet resources needs to be addressed by both practice and education.