It is easy to be confused about the difference between Graphic Design and Illustration. In fact, nowadays, a lot of artists switch between the two creative fields.
The main difference between the two is how and when you use them. Usually, graphic design is more commercial, whereas illustration relates to fine art.
Graphic designers are more anonymous than illustrators because their work focuses more on communicating someone else's idea through classic design elements. Whereas, an illustrator's work is based on their personal style and artistic skill.
Graphic Design is the profession of using visual elements and compositions to communicate ideas through typography, imagery, colour and form. Although illustrations are focused on creative interpretation, graphic design is all about communicating with the target audience.
The type of graphic designs ranges from posters, flyers, business cards, logos, web design and more. They can be in print or digitally.
Illustrations are based on storytelling, they are a visual way to portray or illustrate a written text. They come in many forms, both traditional and digital. Illustrations are found everywhere, especially in published media such as posters, books, and magazines. In the digital space, they are often created by a graphic tablet (both freehand and/or vector graphics).
Like both graphic design and illustrators, graphic illustrations are used to express ideas visually, clarify concepts, sell products, educate and promote. Graphic illustrators come with a variety of skills such as drawing, painting, digital illustration, business and marketing. They require both artistic skill and creative thinking to communicate and interpret abstract concepts.