This course is an introduction to the elements and principles of design including basic compositional theory, graphic design methodology and production and presentation skills. Emphasis is placed on technical proficiency in the handling of tools and materials and the mastery of a visual language via basic problem-solving.This course is a study of the application and importance of color to graphic design. Emphasis is placed on the symbolic, aesthetic and psychological aspects of color. Experimentation and flexibility of approach are stressed as are both two-dimensional and three-dimensional applications. Color Theory, subtractive color mixing and additive color mixing will be explored. Prerequisites: GC111 Basic Graphic Design and GC 121 Digital Typography. Computer Supply Fee.
This is a studio course supported by lecture, presentation, discussion and critique. Often lecture and discussion begin the class session, followed by class time to work on assignments under the direction of the professor. Graphic Exercises and reading or research is assigned through out the term, and students require time outside of class to complete assignments.
COLOR HARMONY & CONTRAST
This exercise encourages students to use compositional concepts such as scale, balance, overlap or interposition, and figure/ground reversal in addition to preliminary exploration in color contrast and color harmony theory, based on studies by Johannes Itten. Emphasis is placed on the division and analysis of space within the format and the application of value and color.
Students explore the placement of individual hues, as well as the value and saturation of hues for each color scheme.Final compositions include achromatic, monochromatic, analogous, triad, split complement, complement, and tetrad schemes. ^
FORM & COLOR
This exercise encourages students to explore and experiment with color harmony and color contrast schemes in a three-dimensional context. Emphasis is placed on the nomenclature of volumetric forms and analysis of color and space using various light sources. Creative association of form, drawing and color exercises supplement the unit content.
In this example, students were introduced to Origami (the Japanese art of paper-folding) to create prisms, antiprisms, and polyhedron. ^
SIMULTANEOUS CONTRAST & PATTERN
This unit directs students in an exploration of simultaneous contrast in value, hue, and saturation in a two-dimensional format. Emphasis is placed on creation of a simple pattern using symmetry rules for visual organization. Development of color observation and analysis skills are essential for successful completion of this exercise. Students realize that color proofs [CMYK] vary from the computer screen [RGB], so adjustment is necessary to create the same visual phenomena in both media.