How much is "artistic ability" a requirement for logo design?

I was just curious how important everyone considers artistic ability in the ability to design good logo concepts.

Obviously I'm not talking basic art skills here like coming up with the concepts (what I'd refer to as an artistic mind) but things such as the ability to draw.

Can you get away with just basic rough sketching skills, or do you think you need more skills?

I know this is a generic response, but I would say it has to deal with the specific logo and who the logo is for. In general, I believe that when it comes to just the concept designing, sketching is fine.

The ability to draw (I assume you mean with traditional hand tools) would be beneficial but I'd argue that it isn't necessary or at least isn't highest on the list of attribtutes needed to create logos in the digital world.

I think that creativity, an artistic, imaginative mind, is more important than technical ability. Taking two people, one who is brimming with creativity but is only proficient with drawing tools, and one who somewhat lacks inspiration but is a master artist when it arrives... the former will be my choice every time.

As an aside, I've been designing logos on and off for many years. I have, honestly, not got a particularly creative mind and cannot draw (pencil on paper) to save my life. However, I can sketch out the dozens of ideas for any particular logo venture on paper (very crudely!) and embellish those in my head before transferring those ideas into something real (as real as digital images get). So, yes, I'd say that you definitely can get away with rough sketching skills. If I can do it, anyone can!

Well - manual art creation is a lot different than technically drawing with photoshop or PhotoImpact (my personal choice...) I'd say it's important that you have a concept put togehter for logo creation and an artistic mind is a must, (ie. knowing which colors work together, principles of shading for realistic 3d effects, knowledge of various software, etc...)

Jacquii.

You need an eye for design, that much is certain. It has to be something that catches the eye, and makes you remember the company.

I must start designing logos soon

I find that the pen tool in photoshop is a handy counterpart and considering i lack in sketching skills my pen tool skills are rapidly increasing as its hand eye coordination rather then sketching skills being used. Often it does depend on the logo but i find that my lacking in sketching skills does not hinder me.

i would consider it very important because you must be able to tell how functional a logo will be for the company and if it will effectively convey their product and or service

If you are using something like illustrator, drawing becomes a lot less necessary. You have tools like the pen tool that allow you to "draw" with the mouse to great precision. I've always found the hardest part is to come up with a workable idea. Once you have that, it is only a matter of time and effort to be able to create your logo.

In my opinion, should be something balanced and aesthetically pleasing. Visually appealing and give the impression of professionalism.