VCD101 Week 12 Final Reflection

What did you learn? 

During task two I started by researching some famous designers quotes to use for the ransom quote portion. I learned that it is common to see specific words emphasised to enhance their impact and get the message across faster and more efficiently. I got to use new techniques like using the scanner for my paper collage and I learned how to use the pen tool, explored the grid system for my booklet and how to create interesting text layouts, experimenting with positioning, scale, contrast and shape. I researched various monograms, new and old, which inspired some of my designs along with my own experimental monogram designs.

Pinpoint some key challenges along the way. 

The most common challenges I faced were with new technology and techniques. The scanner and pen tools felt counterintuitive to use, which meant I had to alter my ideas on the fly and figure out new techniques to get as close as I could to the results I hoped for. I didn't manage to complete my paper collage in one lesson so while creating my paper collage I had to transport my many small snippets to and from home to keep them safe, however this meant that some where lost and I had to locate new letters to replace them.

What skills and knowledge will you take forward into future projects? 

I would definitely like to revisit collage as I enjoyed using physical tools and techniques to create my designs. I also found the quote research interesting and informative. I enjoyed using outside stimulus to prompt my creativity, I found it by far the easiest way to come up with new ideas. Being able to work through multiple design variations for the monogram was useful to see my ideas evolve and combine. 

Monogram Sketches

The challenge with working with pen and paper is the finality of the marks. When I made a mistake I had to redraw the design entirely. However the flip side of using pen and paper is that it's easy to make many iterations quickly.

Working digitally is the reverse of pen and paper, editing or making changes is a simple matter. However, partially due to my lack of finesse, it takes much longer for each design iteration. The ability to copy and paste designs to make quick changes is very useful.

Collage

Text Type

The first text layout I tried was to create interest with the text box. Emphasising the first word in the test separates it and gives it weight. I contrasted this with the reference at the bottom by making in a smaller font size to reduce its visual impact. The difference in weight and taper created an interesting scrolling effect.

I created this text design to contrast the previous, using heavy bold text throughout to create a monolithic feeling, using solely the rag to create interest.

Lastly I wanted to creat a toned down design so I thought whats more toned down than a redacted document. I used this motif to create a dynamic layout.