Assignments

Assignment #1 - Icons

Objective: Our assignment for this project was to create icons without using any words or colors (excluding black and white) by properly utilizing the elements we were introduced to in Adobe Illustrator. The icons could have represented different meanings, ranging from cooking to sports to florists, and even shoe stores. By creating icons that don't use words, we learned that by using visuals one can reach a broad variety of audiences, and break down language barriers.

Reflection: If I were to complete this task again, I would definitely use the pen tool that we were recently taught how to use, but also I would try to make my work more unique, and stand out compared to everyone else. I should have put more effort and detail in to each of my designs to make them exceptional. Though there are many things that I would change, I am still very satisfied with different aspects of each of my icons. I like the brush strokes that I used on my coffee mug, I like how I put flags on the uprights of the goalpost, and I am very pleased with how my camera turned out.

Assignment #2 - Texture Squares

Objective: The ideal for this assignment was to produce 9 different squares, utilizing a different texture in each square. For the top row, we were supposed to incorporate texture in the design using different brush strokes, but only using black and white. For the second row we incorporated space in to our designs still only using black and white. For the bottom row, we got to use all shades of black, for these were our value squares.
Reflection: Some of my designs clash together and I could have reorganized them to make the appearance flow better. Plus, I could have utilized more black in my top three squares to attract more attention to them. I think the second texture on the middle row turned out nicely, though.


Assignment #3 - Color Wheel

Objective: For our color wheel projects, we were instructed to use two related objects and make inner and outer circles repeating these objects. Then, we had to make a color wheel out of said objects.
Reflection: The colors on my color wheel I feel are fairly on spot, however I could have used a more creative idea for the objects I used.










Assignment #4 -Pop Art
Objective: By mimicking the style of Andy Warhol, we were supposed to make Pop Art style images using photos we took of ourselves in Photobooth. First, we adjusted the levels and curves in Photoshop, and then applied a Threshold in order to get the image prepared for drawing on top. We used a different color scheme for each square: Analogous, Complimentary, Split-Complimentary, and Monochromatic. 
Reflection: There wasn't a lot of detail on my picture, which made the finished product dull and un-exciting. I would most definitely have used a different picture if given the chance to start over.

Assignment #5 - Photo Mosaics

Objective: For this assignment, we utilized the ordering of layers and visibility effects. We placed several picture (about 40 in my case) and merged them once we got one row done. Then, we copied the layer multiple times and arranged it in several different ways all the way down to the bottom.
Reflection: In my opinion, this is the best design that I have completed in this class. I like how I can still see all of the pictures and I like how the effect worked with my background.

Assignment #6 - Stephen Kroninger

Objective: For this project, we mirrored Stephen Kroninger's style. He created the illustrations for his book "If I Crossed the Road" by cutting out various textures from magazines. We were assigned to create a design that would "fit in" his book, and make an illustration that described where we would go if we could cross the road. This was the first time we were introduced to layer masks. 
Reflection: I feel like I utilized different textures fairly well, though I could have used more to mimic his style more precisely.


Assignment #7 - Blend Yourself
Objective: For this assignment, we used the layer mask that we had used previously for the Stephen Kroninger project, except this time we weren't trying to make the lines look like they were cut out, we wanted to use a softer brush so that it looked like we actually took a picture with the celebrity/celebrities we chose.
Reflection: I wish I would have chosen a better background so that my picture looked more realistic, but I think that I used brush fairly well so that it looks blended.

Assignment #8 - See What I'm Saying
Objective: This was our first project where we were introduced to Typography. We found images on the internet and traced them using text. Also, we used the text to fill in the varied areas of light and dark. Reflection: I think that my project turned out ok, but I should have used a design that gave more options to make it unique. It didn't turn out how I expected it to.







Assignment #9 - Design With Type
Objective:By using different typefaces and elements of design, we created designs using only shapes and text. We used one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, and one number, and we could not use the same letters or numbers twice.

Reflection: I like the last one I did the most out of all of them, because I like the Blackletter typeface.

Assignment #11 - Type + Photo

Objective: For this assignment, we used layer blends and a photograph taken by ourselves to create a design that included some sort of text that blended well in to the design.

Reflection: I used a photograph that I took of my brother's tattoo that commemorates the passing of our older brother. I think the song lyrics were appropriate and the design turned out well.



Assignment #12 - Alpha Poster

Objective: For this assignment, we used photographs that we took of objects that represent and look similar to letters. We then took all of the photographs and collaged them in alphabetical order.
Reflection: This project was very entertaining and I thoroughly enjoyed being able to use my DSLR and involve it in schoolwork. I'm glad that we were given the opportunity to put our own creative twist on this project.


Assignment #13 - Exquisite Corpse Objective: The first step for this project was to draw a card and get randomly assigned group members. Then, each person in their group chose whether they wanted to design the head, the torso, or the legs. Then once everyone completed their portion, we put them all together to reveal the exquisite corpse.
Refection: My part of this project was the legs. I decided to use a mermaid tail because I thought it was a unique twist. The project, once put together, was very interesting and I think everyone enjoyed seeing the outcomes.


Assignment #14 - Career Poster

 Objective: We split in to groups of designers and photographers, and then we chose either organizations or careers and took notes on them. We then put the important information in to a design that utilized Z-Pattern and unity. Once we completed that, we presented our findings to the class so that they could take notes on them. 
Reflection: I'm very pleased with the way the photographer silhouettes turned out, but I could have placed them more strategically in order to comply with Z-pattern.

Assignment #15 - Illuminated Manuscript

 Objective: As we were researching the history of visual communications, we did a podcast post on Illuminated Manuscripts, and then we were assigned to make our own. First, we created the template for the manuscript and then the initial letter. We then placed them in to InDesign, and added text.
Reflection: I liked the way my illuminated manuscript turned out. I was very pleased with the background and I think the colors worked well together.


Assignment #16 - History Timeline

Objective: After completing the history podcasts, we started this project. We were supposed to include all of the podcasts we did and arrange them in chronological order in to a design.
Reflection: I think I could have included more color in to this design to provide more interest to the viewer. I like, however, how the arrows provide for a gameboard-esc feel.

Assignment #17 - Combimark

 Objective: For this assignment, we were given a couple options of companies to make logos for, and we were to choose one. We had to make a combimark for the company, which is a logo type design that incorporates a small visual and the company's name to create the message.
Reflection: I was pleased with how my design turned out. I especially like the circle with the line that makes it look like the record is being played.

Assignment #18 - Wordmark

Assignment #19 - Stationary Package