Research Articles Base: Graphic Design Essay

Interactive Multimedia

Question 1: The picture on the left is my chosen piece of graphic design. This design was made as a publication cover. In this graphic design, images had been colorfully arranged to relay a message that is focused on taking care of oneself and staying healthy. This message has been made clear as the pictures used portray various aspects of fit and healthy living. In particular, images that show good diet, weight-watching, muscle-building, exercising, relaxing and cigarette butts on an ashtray had been used to communicate this message. The graphic design is also stressing that there are several ways on how an individual can improve his or her health. This message is apparently directed for young adults and adults who are at-risk to unhealthy lifestyles. Aside from these, the message of the graphic design appears to be directed for workers or professionals as well, particularly those who do not have the time to think of themselves, relax and enjoy the outdoors. Although the message is clear, the picture of cigarette butts seems to be off the general theme of the graphic design. While the majority of the images clearly show what readers should do to obtain good health, cigarette-smoking on the other hand is a vice that readers should not do. Though it is related, this picture does not contribute to the main theme of the design and conflicts the message being stressed by the cover. The message of the design could have been better communicated if a single theme is chosen; this would facilitate better reader or viewer comprehension. Question 2:              was an American inventor, designer, visionary and architect. He has been known as an advocator of the ephemeralization principle. This principle was inspired by emphasis on discovering infinite possibilities available to mankind. If  has been famous through his quote “Design is doing more with less”, Fuller has also been made popular with a similar quote but with a different meaning.  used this famous design quotation to stress that designs do not have to be elaborate to be aesthetically pleasing; thus, this line has always been related to the concept that simplicity is still the best design. Fuller on the other hand, related the “doing more with less” quote with his ephemeralization principle. Rather than focus on aesthetics, Fuller noted that sophisticated designs should have less materials and that good designs can be produced even from recycling various resources. By means of recycling, Fuller believed that even small things that appear useless can be developed into high value items.             This phrase is very much related to contemporary multimedia design as it promotes the value of creativity. Artists and designers of today cannot depend on new items or products all the time considering the cost of goods. However, by means of developing old items, the creativity of a designer in using various materials is optimized. Through Fuller’s quote, designers can be encouraged to think out of the box, consider other better options and make the most of the available items or resources for a good design.   Question 3:             In order to describe a website with a strong visual voice, two websites focused on giving diabetes education to users were selected. One of which is the official website of the American Diabetic Association  and the other is official site of Diabetes UK . Comparing these sites, the website of the ADA appear to have a stronger visual voice that the second site. This is mainly because the ADA website was able to use various means of visual language effectively. In terms of typography, the site made use of sans serif font styles so as to ensure readability and legibility, considering that the contents of the site are factual and medical information. Spacing is also used effectively to separate one subject from another, facilitating better reading. Links are also placed in web pages to encourage user to read more about their selected topics. Aside from these, images and multimedia sources are placed in the site. Among its interactive features include a diabetes risk test, multimedia education, recipes and the virtual grocery store as well as the rate your plate feature where users can place computer-generated food item on a plate and see whether they are following a good diet. The Diabetes UK website is an informative site as well. In terms of visual language, the site used typography principles effectively. However, the site lacks the use of images or graphics that could describe the main content of the site. The lack of interactivity also lessens the capability of the site to appeal and effectively educate users.    Question 4:             Organizations are often hesitant on allocating budgets for graphic designs. This is mainly because employing graphic design services can be very expensive. In particular, hiring graphic designers can be ineffective considering that they are not familiar with the operations and specific needs of the company. Moreover, entrusting graphic design needs to some professionals also increases the risk of costly errors and mistakes. These are some of the common reasons why most organizations slash graphic design budgets away. Although, these problems actually occur, organizations should consider that developing and funding for good graphic designs are a necessity to present business operations. In particular, marketing efforts are considerably enhanced through the efficient use of graphic designs. The creation of good promotional displays, distinctive logos and other similar media all help the company in communicating with their targets or consumers. Thus, rather than make graphic design less of a priority, organizations should make use of other available option that would still allow them to utilize graphic designing. For instance, instead of using graphic designers from the conceptualization up to the execution of the design, companies should involve themselves and use their own creativity in designing. The professional expertise of the graphic designers can then be used on evaluating, enhancing and approving the design. In this way, organizations can ensure that their ideas and standards are still represented by the final design. Graphic designing is a necessity for business companies; available options should then be used for better and less costly outcomes. Question 5:             One of the most popular and influential architects is  During his career, he was able to develop and introduce a number of individual styles that helped in developing American architecture. His works had been popularized at the start of the twentieth century when servants had almost been phased out from American households. With this change of trend, Wright developed a style known as open plans, which made him well-known. In this architectural design, spaces at home where made into workplaces where women can easily do their housework but will still be able to keep track of the children or entertain guests in the dining area. The works and early designs of   have also been integrated into Wright’s concepts. The Usonian style for suburban homes has been popularized by Wright as well and was adapted by several developers. Aside from the open plans, simplified construction methodologies and slab-on-grade footing were among his famous contributions to architecture.             was an Austrian photographer, architect, painter and graphic designer. In print,  introduced some of the known font styles today such as the sans serif typeface and the custom geometric font called universal. He had also become an art director for Vogue magazine. In architecture, Bayer co-designed the Aspen Institute and participated in the restoration of the Wheeler Opera House. He had also been a famous photographer through his ski poster works where it was effectively promoted as a glamorous and exciting sport. Saul Bass on the other hand was a graphic designer but was more known for his participation and design for motion pictures. During his career, he had worked with some of the best filmmakers in Hollywood, including . Among his famous works was the animated paper cut out used in the Man with the Golden Arm. Aside from his works in the film industry, Bass was also a popular logo designer. The globe logo used today by AT&T was the sixth logo of the company and was designed by Bass. Other company logos made by Bas include the ones used by the Quaker Oats Company, Minolta, United Airlines and Warner Communications.             A British typographer, art director and graphic designer,  is among the founding member of FontShop in London, which introduced several designs of typefaces. He has also been part of the FUSE project where magazine, graphics and typeface designs had all been integrated. At present,  continues to be a graphic designer in his own design practice known as Research Studios that is found in London, Berlin and Paris. Aside from designing font styles, he has also been involved in various projects including the development of packaging designs for Kenzo Perfumes and branding activities for HomeChoice and Macromedia. Andre Cassandre was an Ukranian-French commercial poster artist, painter and typeface designer. Among his famous early works was the posters made for Dubonnet, a wine company; this work has earned him more clientele as the posters can be seen even by passengers of fast-moving vehicles. Aside from this, his posters were also very memorable as they made use of graphic solutions developed by famous painter like  In typography, Bifur, Acier Noir and Peignot were among  popular typeface designs. he was also employed by companies to do logo designs; among these companies include Yves Saint Laurent. Well-known graphic designer  is famous for his poster designs including the Bob Dylan poster as well as his logo designs such as the DC Comics and the I Love New York logos. Along with  is also a co-founder of New York Magazine. The works of this designer has been characterized by originality, directness and simplicity. He is also very versatile when it comes to selecting the style or medium for designing. The establishment of Milton Glaser Inc. enabled him to participate in various major projects like the 600-foot mural creation for the Federal Office Building. He had received several awards for his contribution to contemporary design and illustration.is a known animator as well as the assigned chief creative executive for Pixar Animation Studios. As a founding member and part of  has been involved in several Pixar projects where he either played as the executive producer or director. Animated films like A Bug’s Life, Toy Story, Toy Story 2 as well as the upcoming movie Cars were among his popular works. Due to his contributions to films, most critics dubbed him as the present Walt Disney. His works did not only gain support from viewers worldwide but also won some important awards.  on the other hand is Apple Computer’s Senior Vice President of Industrial Design. One of the greatest contributions of Ive to computer manufacturing was the integration of fashionable designs and styles for Apple’s iMac product line. Compared to the iMacs developed during the 1990s, Macs today are not only more functional but stylish as well. The radical developments of these computers pave the way for the “new Apple” symbol. Colors are the main component of  works. His early designs features milky white surfaces with see-through candy color surface and bulging shapes; the translucent colors were actually based from gumdrop candies. The color code of the products was even patterned after candy flavors (e.g. Blueberry, Grape, Tangerine, Lime and Strawberry). This design even began a trend with other goods like clock radios and chairs that are made from translucent bright plastic. Another design introduced by Ive was the Graphite color scheme, a calmer smokey gray color. At present, Ive’s designs were based from latest consumer preferences characterized by professional and sophisticated designs; here, multi-color styles were replaced by glossy white coloring, opaque finishes, brushed aluminum with streamlined shapes.  was Austrian automotive engineers and is best known for his contribution to car designing. In particular, he was the one who designed the original Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, he was also the one who designed some of the advanced tanks in Germany including the Elefant, Tiger I and Tiger II. Jakob Nielsen is a speaker, writer as well as a consultant for web and software usability. During the initial introduction of the Web, Nielsen correctly foresaw the role of hypertext in user interface design; thus, he made a comprehensive book about it. He developed his own website where he regularly writes articles on usability research. His expertise on web usability has gone through controversies and critics as he stresses the graphics, flash animation and other similar features are only use for gimmicky purposes. Currently, Nielsen still writes newsletter on web design and published books about the same subject.   Question 6: Background: The aim of this design brief is to help out a designer in need of a promotional portfolio for a website. The client have recently put up a day care center in a mall, the client would like to promote the services of the business by using the website design. Task: The task of the tem is to design a website that would promote the services of the client’s business and appeal to the target market. The design should clearly communicate the services offered by the business, contact details, mall location and other important details. Service Description: For this project, the client will be serviced through the use of web design programs and templates. Sample web designs will be shown to the client. A design will be selected by the client along with the modifications that will be done. The development, testing, evaluation and installment of the site will be done by the design team. Target Market: The target market for the web promotional design will be parents, particularly mothers who need to do some hassle-free shopping. Professional or career moms who do not wish to leave their children at home and has to shop are also the main target of this project. Parents can also make use of the business services to clean up their kids, let them sleep or play with other children. Tone and Manner: For best project results, the design team will ensure a continuous information exchange with the client. Moreover, if the client has other designs in mind, this will be integrated openly by the team. The design team will encourage the client to be involve in the promotional project to ensure that the final design truly suit the needs of the client. Budget: For this project the client is willing to spend ,500. Mandatories: For legal formalities, the project would require an official business registration. The logo of the business must also be provided.   Question 7:             There are several online resources that could help me in my professional development. One of which is the website of the     (ACUADS). This site features downloadable research articles and online newsletters that could be of use in enhancing my knowledge on graphic design and visual arts. Aside from these, the website also displays updated list of conferences, seminars and workshops available for graphic designers and artists. Attending these conferences can provide me with updated developments on graphic designs, which could promote my professional development. The organization itself serves an important role in helping artists, designers and craftsmen obtain high quality knowledge; thus, using the site will help me become an efficient professional artist. The Design for Australia is yet another useful online resource. Similar to ACUADS, the site also offers useful resources that could update my knowledge on designing and arts. The site also promotes a program known as Continuing Professional Development (CPD). This program is developed in order to promote the role of design in the business and work sector. This program also stresses the importance of continues learning among artists; by taking part in this site’s program, I would be able to develop professionally through various education forms like workshops, mentoring, conferences, teaching and the like.     Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com

Interactive Multimedia

Question 1: The picture on the left is my chosen piece of graphic design. This design was made as a publication cover. In this graphic de...

GRAPHIC DESIGN TECHNIQUES

Graphic Design Techniques   Graphic Design is the art or profession of using design elements (such as typography and images) to convey information and/or create an effect; graphic design is also defined as the product of the art of using design elements.   Formal and informal balance       The ad above shows a symmetrical layout of Mentos Cool Chews. Symmetry means a mirror image, one side is the mirror image of the other. Symmetry can occur in any orientation as long as the image is the same on either side of the central axis.   This type of image has great appeal since it makes for “good” shape relationship. Many people automatically gravitate to symmetry. We are symmetrical after all — two eyes, two ears, etc. Printed materials of consumer products are dominantly uses symmetry layout.   Focal Points and Accents A focal point draws your attention to the most important element on the page. In realistic art the focal point is usually quite easy to spot. Larger figures, usually found in the foreground, provide a focal point. Focal points may be emphasized in different techniques. Focal point can be by contrast, isolation or placement. The focal point of the ad which would draw the eyes of the viewers is the yellow thing in the picture. Almost everything in the picture shows a blue color and the product that is emphasized in this picture shows a different color. The focal point in this ad is emphasized through contrasting colors and by placing the product at the middle. The eyes of the viewers are drawn to objects that differ from the whole picture.   Positive and Negative Shapes       Positive shapes are always the objects in an image or design. Negative shapes, these are always the shape formed from the space around your object. In the picture above the positive and negative shapes are clearly emphasized by the metallic color of the automobile.   Grids A grid is a series of horizontal and vertical lines that evenly and symmetrically divide a page. A grid organizes all of the content on a page or screen and makes it easier and much more interesting to read and comprehend. Grids are used to emphasize the most important parts of your content, organize it into categories, and make it visually interesting and not static.   Unity and Variety   Unity may be the single most important concept. All elements on a page (or slide, poster, etc.) must look like they belong together — nothing can seem accidental or random. The entire design, then, is more (and more important) than the mere sum of its elements. However, it is important to break up the unity once in a while (or on parts of a page). You need unity so that the message you want to communicate comes out clearly and strong. But you also need variety in the design to add interest and life and to grab attention.       Rhythm Repetitions of similar or varying graphic elements can create a visual rhythm that a reader will understand as a sense of organization and unity. Figures and graphics tend to be picked up as pulsations, intervals between them as pauses. In interactive texts, this “beat” can be exploited in temporal directions as well, by varying the pagination and the “mental time” on any one page. Flowing rhythms are the most relaxing, and their gradual crescendos and decrescendos can be modulated into a final “cascade” to make a memorable point. Syncopated rhythms are more dynamic, and much more difficult to control. On a small scale, these shifts in rhythm and accent can bring pointed attention to important information. Color can be an effective way to control any rhythm. Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN TECHNIQUES

Graphic Design Techniques Graphic Design is the art or profession of using design elements (such as typography and images) to convey...

Graphic Design Techniques

Graphic Design Techniques   Graphic Design is the art or profession of using design elements (such as typography and images) to convey information and/or create an effect; graphic design is also defined as the product of the art of using design elements.   Formal and informal balance       The ad above shows a symmetrical layout of Mentos Cool Chews. Symmetry means a mirror image, one side is the mirror image of the other. Symmetry can occur in any orientation as long as the image is the same on either side of the central axis.   This type of image has great appeal since it makes for “good” shape relationship. Many people automatically gravitate to symmetry. We are symmetrical after all — two eyes, two ears, etc. Printed materials of consumer products are dominantly uses symmetry layout.   Focal Points and Accents A focal point draws your attention to the most important element on the page. In realistic art the focal point is usually quite easy to spot. Larger figures, usually found in the foreground, provide a focal point. Focal points may be emphasized in different techniques. Focal point can be by contrast, isolation or placement. The focal point of the ad which would draw the eyes of the viewers is the yellow thing in the picture. Almost everything in the picture shows a blue color and the product that is emphasized in this picture shows a different color. The focal point in this ad is emphasized through contrasting colors and by placing the product at the middle. The eyes of the viewers are drawn to objects that differ from the whole picture.   Positive and Negative Shapes       Positive shapes are always the objects in an image or design. Negative shapes, these are always the shape formed from the space around your object. In the picture above the positive and negative shapes are clearly emphasized by the metallic color of the automobile.   Grids A grid is a series of horizontal and vertical lines that evenly and symmetrically divide a page. A grid organizes all of the content on a page or screen and makes it easier and much more interesting to read and comprehend. Grids are used to emphasize the most important parts of your content, organize it into categories, and make it visually interesting and not static.   Unity and Variety   Unity may be the single most important concept. All elements on a page (or slide, poster, etc.) must look like they belong together — nothing can seem accidental or random. The entire design, then, is more (and more important) than the mere sum of its elements. However, it is important to break up the unity once in a while (or on parts of a page). You need unity so that the message you want to communicate comes out clearly and strong. But you also need variety in the design to add interest and life and to grab attention.       Rhythm Repetitions of similar or varying graphic elements can create a visual rhythm that a reader will understand as a sense of organization and unity. Figures and graphics tend to be picked up as pulsations, intervals between them as pauses. In interactive texts, this “beat” can be exploited in temporal directions as well, by varying the pagination and the “mental time” on any one page. Flowing rhythms are the most relaxing, and their gradual crescendos and decrescendos can be modulated into a final “cascade” to make a memorable point. Syncopated rhythms are more dynamic, and much more difficult to control. On a small scale, these shifts in rhythm and accent can bring pointed attention to important information. Color can be an effective way to control any rhythm. Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com

Graphic Design Techniques

Graphic Design Techniques Graphic Design is the art or profession of using design elements (such as typography and images) to con...

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