GDS 108 Design Media and Principles

Project 1: The Grid
Instructor: Paul Young

 

Objective

To learn design principles through exploration and experimentation. To utilize the grid as a logical visual organization tool.

 

Secondary objectives

To utilize Adobe Illustrator as a layout and production tool.

Helpful Illustrator tips:

  • View > show grid
  • View > snap to grid
  • Illustrator preferences > guides & grids
  • Text tool: single-click=point type; click+drag=area type
    (see video)

 

Description

Design a museum screening handout about influential designer Saul Bass for MoMA in New York City.

  • size: 8.5 x 11 inches (one page)
  • font: Franklin Gothic (you may only use two font sizes and two weights)
  • ink: black only
  • include: client-provided text and images (use a minimum of 3 images)

See example of a Saul Bass title sequence from 1958:

 

 

Procedure

1. CONCEPTS AND SKETCHING: In your sketchbook begin to conceptualize layouts for this project (see examples of sketches). Make at least 10 variations of possible directions you might take this project. Edit your concepts down to your best three ideas for execution. Scan and print your sketches for your Process Book.

2. EXECUTION: Using your sketches as reference, execute your best three ideas using the text and images provided. Generate web-ready JPEGs and publish your proofs on your personal projects page for critique. Also print high-quality b&w proofs for your Process Book.

3. PORTFOLIO PREPARATION: Based on the critique of the above, refine your best layout and add a revised JPEG to your personal personal projects page for final critique. If necessary, make additional refinements until you are 100% satisfied with the project. Print a high-quality b&w proof for your portfolio. Be sure to save all your files for future editing.

4. GRADING: Submit two b&w laser proofs of your final proof with your name on it for grading. File the graded proof in your Process Book for individual review along with all the preliminary work you did for the project (sketches, preliminary proofs, final proof). You will not receive credit for this project if any of the above elements are missing.

5. STUDENT GALLERY ARCHIVES: Prepare a low resolution PDF (smallest file size) of your project and drop it in Angel's drop box. Your project may be published in a showcase of student work on Parkland's website.

 

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