Ok so maybe technically they are not graphic designers, but the Ndebele tribe definitely could be in their own way, even with no access to the accredited graphic design certificate programs that we have available statewide. Reason being is because they go through a creative process and the body of work they produce is a visual representation of ideas that communicate messages, and even brands them as a culture and people.
Art, design and craft are a way of life for the Ndebele tribe and historically this is one thing that sets them apart from other customs and traditions of other tribes. The Ndebele who hail from South Africa have a strong affinity for linear concepts and more specifically line direction and quality. The freehand skill level they possess is amazingly supreme, (no rulers, levels or measuring tapes allowed) and the execution process is done seamlessly with no blueprint, although some planning does actually take place. The linear techniques they produce, mainly consist of horizontal solid and bold lines. Within these lines rest the most vibrant of colors, patterns and motifs.
In the past the Ndebele women were in charge of painting these detailed colorful and sometimes complex murals over the entire exterior walls of their homes, using an array of bright primary colors. So your probably wondering how does all this relate to graphic design certificate programs? The answer is simple if you have been dreaming about making that career move in the graphic design space, take note from the Ndebele people and choose a specialization or area of design and master it!
The Ndebele are great craftsman when it comes painting and line technique, they even produce a level of sophisticated beadwork. But they are known for their detailed line art when it comes to painting. So whatever your area of concentration is, computer graphics, interactive media or industrial design become an authority of it. Yes it’s great to know a little of everything but make it your business to master one. That being said here is my list of graphic design certificate programs that can jump start your career and move you in the right direction. This is only the beginning you may get inspired to obtain a bachelors or masters degree eventually to reinforce your credibility, though they are not really needed, but it’s always good to continue learning in some form.
http://www.sessions.edu/certificate-programs/graphic-design (graphic design certificate programs online)
http://www.sessions.edu/certificate-programs/web-design (online web design certificate programs)
http://www.the-art-institutes.info/ (check for a local campus in your city)
http://www.scps.nyu.edu/areas-of-study/design-programs/professional-certificates/digital-and-graphic-design-production-tech.html (NYU)
http://www.pratt.edu/academics/continuing_education_and_professional/professional_studies/
pro_certificate_programs/computer_graphics/ (Pratt Institute)
http://www.newschool.edu/parsons/graphic-digital-design-certificate-programs/ (NYC)
http://www.baruched.com/shop/certificate.aspx?id=3055 (NYC)
http://www.smfa.edu/graphic-design-certificate (Boston)
http://www.cdiabu.com/graphic-and-web-design/ (Boston U)
http://www.massart.edu/continuing_education/design_certificate_programs/graphic_design_certificate.html (Boston)
http://cll.emory.edu/it/certifications/graphicdesign/index.htm (graphic design certification – Atlanta)
http://cll.emory.edu/it/certifications/web/design/index.htm (web design certification – Atlanta)
http://www.bramsonort.edu/academics/programs/certificate/graphic_design.html (Brooklyn | Queens)
http://www.fitnyc.edu/2963.asp CAD for Fashion Design/Art
http://www.nyit.edu/extended_education
Finding the right graphic design program concentration that will be fulfilling and one that you will enjoy is the greatest challenge. A few areas you may want to research include but are not limited to; presentation design, package design, web design, fashion and apparel design, industrial design, advertising and communications, digital video, animation, print, typography, broadcast design, production design and interactive media, these are still only a few ideas among many, do your research. You can invest in and purchase your own software like CS5 with all of adobes tools or Corel Suite and learn techniques via Youtube or through various books or just on your own. Graphic design certificate programs are also available online, but I suggest the classroom or campus route because it can be a good resource to network with other up and coming designers and seasoned professionals.