Access Quote by Michael Bierut
“Compared with now when almost everyone knows what graphic design is and has some sort of access to the tools to make it, back then, it was really esoteric, you had to quantify it as being 'like commercial art', as one still does in certain circles. It was a strange thing to want to do for a living.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Design Matters Podcast, 2018
Graphic design shifted from niche, commercial‑art perception to mainstream accessibility, changing how creators view the profession.
In simple terms: Design used to be niche, now it’s common.
Embrace the evolving perception of design.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- branding projects
- freelance work
- educational curricula
- industry hiring
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How has accessibility changed your design process?
- Do you miss any aspects of the old niche?
The shift may overlook deeper artistic values.