Too many triangles

I took two different approaches to my album design. The first is done in the style of most of the bands album art, while the second is more original. The sun and moon/ purple gold contrast is based on the song.

Went for a kind of earthy, muted, foggy look for my poster. I knew I wanted to use a deer skull as it has a very earthy, alternative feel. I used hand lettering as I felt typing the info would ruin the overall subtle look. I d realize this poster does not do what a poster should with its text, and it not readable from a far, but because of time crunches this is the best I could muster.

Completely neglected to post this one, whoops. Portfolio cover image.

Finished logo, color, black & white, and sketches

Logo designs for a fake company, Oak Furniture Co. I went for a more minimalistic and simple look to represent the simplicities of strong furniture.

For my logo research, I chose the Wacom logo. The original Wacom logo was the usual sleek, clean, modern look that many are familiar with in these days (very popularized by the apple look). The new logo differs in the sense that it throws a lot of those standards away in favor of a more alive, fun and energetic look. The designer claims that his time in japan greatly impacted this design, as in japan designs are often more colorful and fun. He also wanted to capture the company’s core concept of creation, as the product they make have become an industry standard for all kinds of of creative professions. The “DNA”, as stated by the creator, is very manga styled. It tries to be whimsical, and silly yet still professional. This new logo has those qualities of fun, memorable, eye catching and professional all at once. In all, the Wacom logo has taken a drastic change for the better, throwing out the corporate modern look and adapting a new look that perfectly represents what the company stands for.

Where does Helvetica originate?

Helvetica originates from Switzerland.

What does the name mean?

It is Latin for the Swiss.

What year was Helvetica created?

It was created in 1957.

What is the design style that Helvetica brought to popularity worldwide?

It popularized Swiss design style.

List three different design styles or design movements that are discussed.

Modernism, post-modernism, and grunge styles are discussed.

Wright about some of the insight about design you have taken from the

Film.

I have learned the importance of design for conveying messages. I think this is why so many people use Helvetica, because it is neutral. It conveys no message of its own, so it can be used to say whatever the designer wants it to. This is also its downfall, as it has adopted a cooperate appeal because of its overuse.

4 Designers mentioned in the film.

Masamo Vignelli   http://www.vignelli.com/home.html

Mathew carter

Edward Hoffman

Paula Cher

Thinking more deeply…

1.    I think typeface is important because it is the visual representation of the word you are reading. For example, if there was a typeface with fancy curls and sparkles and the word read “agony” would interpret the word to be sarcastic.

2.    They are creating the images we so famously associate with major companies, ideas, or movements. They are the people who’s goal it is to capture attention and create memorable works.

3.    I use Verdana and Myrid Pro because I find them nice and subtle, but Helvetica has a very professional look that I plan to use more often.

4.    Just because something is easy to read, it doesn’t mean it can easily communicate a message. If someone writes “dog” in white text on a blue background, it is open to a variety of interpretation, even though it is legible and clear.

5.    Design is trying to appeal to the populous, so as the populous changes, so does the design.

6.    I think it is a direct opposite to the Helvetica modern style. I think that is there was no modernism there would be no grunge. To some degrees the grunge look works out well, especially for conveying powerful emotionally fueled messages, but sometimes grunge doesn’t work. I don’t think grunge should be used just to contradict a style, but as its own style for its own expression.

7.    It depends on the typeface used, but in general I don’t thing society takes well to change. Its sad how lethargic people have become when it comes to the new. If a company changes they may as well be a different company.

8.    I am definitely more aware of the typefaces used in my life. Its surprising how the same old typeface can be adapted and used to fit so many different styles and messages.

9.    I feel that I have gained a greater understanding of how Graphic Design is used to convey messages and how prominent and important it is in our lives.

Box Design for a fictional company

Not sure what I was going for here. just doodled aimlessly in the negative space.

Typography poster based on a quote from an original character.

Typography

Legibility is important. Choose time-tested fonts, nothing too over elaborate.  Serif fonts have small flourishes at the needs of the letters; Sans Serif fonts do not have there. Serif fonts are better for smaller text, while Sans Serif is better for larger sizes.  Too many font variations can be confusing and muddles the message.  The same goes for fonts that are too similar, as they often can cause confusion. TYPING IN ALL CAPS CONVEYS A MESSAGE OF ANGER OR LOUDNESS. IT IS GENERALLY HARD TO READ AND SHOULD MOSTLY BE USED FOR TITLES AND HEADERS. When writing, left alignment is generally easier to read and flows better. Tools for emphasis: Italics, Bold, Size, Color, Typestyle Change.  Avoid distorting fonts as it destroys its integrity.  Go for balance, font weights that contrast and lopsidedness is a problem.  Kerning refers to the space between letters. It is very important to uphold good kerning in typography

Design Principals/Elements

Design elements are the basic units of a visual image. Design principles organize and govern an image as a whole.  All imagery can be broken down into these elements.

Design Elements: Space, Line, Color, Shape, Texture and Value

Space- can exist in two, or three dimensions, and both positive and negative space. Can create depth with layered elements

Line-  Many different types convey different messages. Created through light and negative space.

Color- invokes mood, time, and place. Important for message.

Shape-  Recognizable and important to give something its message and purpose (natural/organic, manmade, geometric).

Texture-  Give palpability, can be two dimensional.

Value- creates depth and defines planes.

Design Principals: Unity, Variety, Repetition, Harmony, Proximity, Proportion, Functionality

Unity-creates a sense of order/consistency in size and shape.

Variety- Makes things more appealing as most people like when things aren’t dull

Repetition- creates unity across large designs and reinforces message.

Harmony- “everything has its place” and when everything is in its place there is a sense of harmony

Proximity- leads eyes around image and helps keep things engaging. Also helps show central goal of graphic.

Proportion-alters message of design and perception of the image.

Functionality- Everything must serve a purpose. Does it give the information needed? Is there too much going on to take away from the functionality?