Objective

To learn to the role and function of symbols and icons. To learn Adobe Illustrator production techniques by example. To learn drawing techniques by recreating the art below:

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Discussion

In 1974, the U.S. Department of Transportation commissioned a series of symbols intended for use at airports and other locations where there are language and cultural barriers. Although these symbols are considered "generic" today, no one can deny that they are universally understood and function very well individually as well as in a group. Such is the power of a well-designed symbol.

In this exercise, we will re-create the original male/female symbol in Adobe Illustrator in order to study its form. Then we will deviate from the original and create alternative designs. Keep in mind that these symbols need to be universally understood and be reproducible large and small, in any color and on any material.

Procedure

setting up the file

1. launch illustrator
2. file > new "symbols.ai" (as template)
3. practice Adobe's navigation keyboard shortcuts (space; space+cmd; space+cmd+opt)
4. file > place "tranportation.gif" (what makes these symbols unified as a group?)
5. new layer "art"

draw original symbols

1. view > outline (cmd+Y)
2. start by drawing half of the male figure (use as many common elements as possible, align as needed, connect art by joining)
3. use the flip tool to flip the object (double-click tool, choose "copy")
4. window > pathfinder: unite the two sides
5. re-use as many elements as possible for the female figure
6. view > preview (cmd-Y); fill with black

draw variations

1. hide "transportation" layer
2. file > place "symbols.gif" (as template)
3. view > outline (cmd-Y)
4. trace over the objects as above
5. view > preview (cmd-Y); fill with black
6. print a b&w proof for grading

invent a new variation

1. in your sketchbook, do thumbnail sketches of other possible variations
2. scan in your sketch, then trace over it in illustrator
3. print a b&w proof for critique
4. revise the design based on feedback
5. print a b&w proof for grading

grading

1. submit b&w proofs with your name on it for grading
2. file graded proof in your 3-ring binder for individual review
3. file > save for web (preset=GIF 32 no dither, image size=800px wide, clip to artboard=yes)
4. publish GIF as a link from your projects page