Of course, I did lots of what would be called graphic design now, what used to be called commercial art.

Leonard Baskin’s quote reflects his acknowledgment of the work he did that would now be classified as graphic design, though in his time it was referred to as commercial art. He is pointing out how the terminology for the creative work in visual communication has evolved over time. Graphic design, a term widely used today, encompasses a wide range of visual tasks, including advertising, branding, and publication design—all of which were historically categorized under the broader and often more commercially focused term commercial art.

Baskin’s statement also highlights the shift in the perception of visual arts over time. What was once considered commercial or business-driven in the past—focused on advertising and selling products—is now appreciated as a significant artistic discipline. The evolution of graphic design as a respected art form shows how the boundaries between art and commerce have blurred over time, with the role of visual communication becoming increasingly central in both commercial and artistic contexts.

By referencing commercial art, Baskin seems to acknowledge the practical and functional nature of the work he did. While today’s graphic designers may be seen as creators of both aesthetically and functionally compelling visual experiences, commercial art in Baskin’s era was more closely associated with creating work that served a specific business goal. This reflects his experience in a time when design was primarily driven by commercial demand, but it also subtly hints at the artistic creativity required to execute these tasks well.

The origin of this quote comes from Leonard Baskin, a renowned printmaker, sculptor, and artist. Known for his work in graphic arts, Baskin’s career spanned a time when commercial art was a distinct field, and his own contributions bridged the worlds of fine art and design. His statement reflects his personal experience working in a time when design was seen more as a craft aimed at selling products, yet he himself contributed to the evolution of graphic design into a more respected artistic discipline.