An art director is responsible for developing the audiovisual concept and the visual codes. This role is available in many creative areas, including film, television and theater, as well as digital, print media and fashion. In advertising, the art director works closely with a copywriter. This creative team is responsible for developing concepts and pieces that meet the client's needs.

Experts recommend that Art Directors in advertising have interpersonal communication skills, stress management skills and creative talents. It is easy to learn the skills and tools necessary to draw and use graphic design tools with solvency. This ability is fully integrated into the daily work of creative teams, regardless of how the campaign will be published.

There are many ways to acquire the tools you need to be a part of a creative team or advance your career in advertising. The Degree in Digital Graphic Design stands out among the many university degrees available to help you start a career in Art direction. Nowadays, a number of online jobs work from home and office based openings in the top companies.

Advertising art director functions

The director of Art in Advertising has an all-disciplinary creative team, in addition to the assistance of the advertising writer. Advertising projects are often linked to the need for disseminating a brand and its products to attract new customers, who, in the end, will help ensure the company's good direction.

A campaign's audiovisual components are made from different pieces of audiovisual material assembled according to a briefing the client gave. The creative team will create the messages and sketches for each piece of art used to create the final art.

We can see that the operations of an art director are:

  • The idea development and audiovisual conceptualization are necessary to create a project.
  • Supervised and promoted in all areas involved in the execution.
  • Define strategies that address customer needs.
  • Encourage creative meetings that can be used to move through the stages of the project.
  • The campaign's graphic and audiovisual materials are monitored, supervised and approved.
  • Assist the client by being their interlocutor.

Depending on the company's size, the Art Director may be part of the executive committee. They can also be present in client relations and other day-to-day activities. Or, as in smaller companies, they could head the design team and directly participate in the creation and execution of audiovisual projects. No matter the company or sector size, the art director position requires a professional background.

PROFILE:

What skills and talents should an Art Director have?

Creativity is a key quality for an Art Director. He must have the ability to generate ideas and communicate them effectively. You must also have solid communication skills in order to communicate messages clearly.

Art Directors must be able to work with a team and manage deadlines. He must be able to lead a team of professionals that depend on him communicating clearly the client's needs and goals.

This profession also benefits from curiosity. It is important to feel the need for continuous training and staying informed about the latest trends in advertising.

PROFESSIONAL OUTINGS

What is the role of an Art Director?

An Art Director can be responsible for advertising, editorial and cinematographic artistic direction.

An Art Director in fashion and design companies can be responsible for the design of products and brands. In the media, they might also be responsible for creating style manuals.

He is responsible for the design, production, and aesthetic direction of a cinematic production.

What is an Art Director responsible for?

The Creative Director creates the concept while the Art Director shapes it graphically. He is responsible for "what is seen".

What tools should an Art Director be able to use?

A Creative Director must have the ability to use graphic arts programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Flash in addition to the competencies and skills described above.