A graphic artist invoice is a paper or digital document used for billing the creation of designs, graphics, and other artistic productions made through the use of computers or non-digital methods. Graphic artists can work as freelancers, or be employed by both small and large companies where they commonly work in marketing settings.
Graphic Artist vs. Graphic Designer
The title “graphic artist” and “graphic designer” are often used interchangeably – but unbeknownst to many, they are not the same by any means. Accurately describing the differences between the two career paths is often difficult because of the varying number of fields in which they can work and the tasks they can undertake. CATMEDIA The Agency describes graphic artists (also known as “illustrators”) as being focused on the visuals they create first, and everything else second. In other words, it’s explained that a graphic artist’s main objective is to entertain the viewer, with no underlying context necessarily being attached to each design they create. Depending on the artist’s focus and role, their illustrations can be created with the use of software or through more conventional means. Jobs a graphic artist may be tasked with include the following:
- Illustrations
- Comic books
- Posters
- Website graphics
Graphic designers, on the other hand, are rooted in a drive to have the viewer of their design complete a certain action, be it to scroll, click, or interact with their illustration. With a strong background in marketing, designers take a client or companies request and complete it to a strict set of guidelines firmly rooted in their education. While the artistic expression is not lost to the designer, the freedom allotted in their work often pales in comparison to that of the graphic artist. Common roles of the graphic designer include:
- Logo creation
- Web design
- Advertisement design
- Infographics
In summary, graphic artists focus their energy on the art they create with an abundance of creativity and freedom, whereas graphic designers create art with the focus of the consumer in mind, using a set of learned principles to deliver structured and precise designs.
Graphic Artist Salary (Illustrator) & Hourly Rate ($/hr)
- Salary: $47,987/yr (source: Glassdoor)
- Hourly rate: $23/hr (source: ZipRecruiter)