They create realistic and abstract works or images of objects, people, nature, topography, or events. Graphic artists, many of whom own their own studios, put their artistic skills and vision at the service of commercial clients, such as major corporations, retail stores, and advertising, design, or publishing firms. Fine artists, on the other hand, often create art to satisfy their own need for self-expression, and may display their work in museums, corporate collections, art galleries, and private homes. Some of their work may be done on request from clients, but not as exclusively as that of graphic artists. Graphic artists , whether freelancers or employed by a firm, use a variety of print, electronic, and film media to create art that meets a client's needs.
Most graphic artists use computer software to design new images.
As the computer software becomes increasingly sophisticated, more artists are likely to become involved with this medium. Some graphic artists create packaging, promotional displays, and marketing brochures for new products, visual designs of annual reports and other corporate literature, or distinctive logos for products or businesses. They are responible for the overall layout and design of magazines, newspapers, journals, and other publications, and they create graphics for television and computer-generated media. Fine artists may sell their works to stores, commercial art galleries, and museums, or directly to collectors. Commercial galleries may sell artists' works on consignment.