Meaning: Leonard Baskin, a renowned American sculptor, illustrator, and graphic artist, made a profound statement with the quote, "Of course, I did lots of what would be called graphic design now, what used to be called commercial art." This quote encapsulates the evolution of artistic practices and the changing perceptions of different creative disciplines over time.

Baskin's acknowledgment of the shift from "commercial art" to "graphic design" reflects the changing landscape of visual communication and artistic expression. In the mid-20th century, when Baskin was active in the art world, the term "commercial art" was commonly used to describe the creation of visual materials for advertising, packaging, and other commercial purposes. This type of art was often seen as a means to sell products and services, and its practitioners were referred to as commercial artists.

However, as the field evolved and expanded its scope, the term "graphic design" emerged to encompass a broader range of visual communication practices. Graphic design came to encompass not only commercial applications but also editorial design, branding, typography, and other forms of visual storytelling. This shift in terminology reflects a broader recognition of the artistic and communicative value of design beyond its commercial applications.

Baskin's acknowledgment of his involvement in what would now be called graphic design highlights the interdisciplinary nature of artistic practice. As an artist who worked across various mediums, including sculpture, printmaking, and illustration, Baskin understood the fluidity of creative roles and the interconnectedness of different visual disciplines. His willingness to embrace the evolving terminology and practices within the field demonstrates a forward-looking and adaptable approach to art and design.

Furthermore, Baskin's statement invites us to consider the intrinsic artistic merit of graphic design and commercial art. While these areas of practice were once viewed as separate from "fine art," Baskin's acknowledgment of his involvement in commercial art suggests a reevaluation of these distinctions. By recognizing the value of his commercial work within the broader context of graphic design, Baskin challenges the traditional hierarchy of artistic disciplines and emphasizes the importance of creativity and craftsmanship across all visual practices.

In contemporary times, the boundaries between graphic design, commercial art, and fine art continue to blur as artists and designers explore hybrid practices and multidisciplinary approaches. The quote by Leonard Baskin serves as a reminder of the fluidity and adaptability of artistic disciplines, encouraging us to embrace the evolving nature of creative expression and to appreciate the diverse forms of visual communication that shape our world.

In conclusion, Leonard Baskin's quote encapsulates the shifting perceptions and terminology within the field of visual communication. His acknowledgment of his involvement in what would now be called graphic design reflects the evolving nature of artistic practices and the interconnectedness of different visual disciplines. By embracing the changing terminology and recognizing the artistic value of commercial art, Baskin's statement challenges traditional distinctions and invites us to appreciate the diverse forms of visual creativity that enrich our lives.