Expert: Sean Trapani - 10/25/2007

Question
I'm an advertising student and wanted some insight about working on the creative department of an ad agency.
I really enjoy using my creativity to solve/think about problems and to come up with ideas. I would like to work as a creative, more specifically as a art director. But, what are the essential characteristics in being an advertising art director? I'm worried because I don't have strong artistic skills.
What would you suggest me to do?

Thank you in advance.

Answer
Hi, Alex

In my opinion, the "essential characteristics" of an art director are similar to that of a copywriter.

Both professionals try to persuade people via unexpected communications tactics. An art director, usually, is better at visual communication - knowing how shape, color, texture, posture, etc., can communicate ideas. Most art directors I've worked with have strong visual art skills - that doesn't mean they are illustrators. But it does mean that they understand the major design software, and know the theory behind it.

You say you're an advertising student. I suspect that you must be attending a traditional 4-year college. If this is the case, you will need additional training for the art director path.

However, if you're a strong writer, you may be able to walk right into an entry-level copywriter position. You'll still need the theoretical background of an art director, but your artistic skills would have more to do with your ability to persuade with powerful headlines, dialogue and other copy (words).

If you're still in love with the idea of being an art director, I would suggest that you look into a graduate program such as VCU Ad Center, UT at A or SCAD.

Good luck!

Prof. T