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Objective

To develop conceptual thinking skills. To communicate ideas visually and verbally. To apply design and typography principles to real-world visual communication problems. To be introduced to publication design and production issues.

 

Secondary objectives

To utilize Adobe InDesign as a layout and production tool.

 

Description

Design an 8-page, full color newsletter. Trim size is 8.5 x 11 , and bleeds are allowed. Text and photos are provided. The outline lists everything included. You may edit or cut elements to fit the layout. The order of articles is flexible. You should recommend a paper stock with your design.

This newsletter is mailed three times per year to supporters of the University of Illinois Library. It is published by the Advancement Office, whose main function is to promote and raise funds for Library projects. The articles promote and inform, and offer opportunities for giving. The audience includes alumni, local and regional book lovers, and other University supporters.

Your design must show an understanding of design principles and professional typography standards.

 

Procedure

1. RESEARCH FOR INSPIRATION: Research other newsletters. How is information presented in an interesting way? How is it organized? Can you identify an underlying structure? What typefaces are most readable, and in what size? What will appeal most to this particular audience? Scan and print examples, and prepared to explain why these examples are successful.

2. CREATIVE BRIEF: Define the project verbally to be sure you understand all the parameters correctly (sample brief). Export to pdf and drop in Angel.

3. DEVELOP THE BANNER CONCEPT: In your sketchbook, begin to conceptualize ideas for this project (see examples of sketches). Make at least 10 sketches of all possible directions you might take the banner and cover page of this newsletter.

4. COVER ROUGH: Choose your best 2 concepts for the front page and draw them on 8.5 x 11 white paper with a black pen. Bring them to class for a critique. Discuss how your design meets the project's objectives.

5. LAYOUT: Based on the critique of the above, use the computer to refine one cover, and expand the publication to 8 pages. Lay out the articles using a grid and style sheets. Present your newsletter in black-and-white in 2-page spreads. Be prepared to talk about how the design principles of unity, emphasis, and balance are utilized in your layout.

6. FINAL PRESENTATION: Based on the critique of the above, produce a full-color comp of the newsletter. Prepare a presentation to "sell" your design. Be prepared to justify your design decisions.

7. GRADING: Submit a pdf file to Angel's Project 3 drop box for grading. Keep research, sketches, proofs, and final comp in your 3-ring binder for individual review. You will not receive credit for this project if any of the above elements are missing.

8. STUDENT GALLERY ARCHIVES: Your project may be published in a showcase of student work on our website.