visual grammar

DESIGN FOR GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION Yr1 SUMMER TERM 2008

VISUAL GRAMMAR DESIGNED BY OLAJIDE KAREEM

CONTENTS

Contrast: Word & Image

Introduction

Contrast: Texture

Contrast: Negative Space

Grids &Numbers

Collage & Juxtaposition

Colour Research

Form & Light/Paper Letters

Evaluation & Thinking Tools

INTRODUCTION This book takes you through each individual sessions of the workshop covered this term, showing clear, vivid and precise information about the design process. As you progress through each sessions, you would come across other works of my colleagues showing a general overview of the outcomes achieved.

CONTRAST

WORD & IMAGE

IntroductionIn this session we are required to visually represent words as simple as possible in black and white

Summer 2008 Term 2 9


PENCILDrawing faint/thick lines, making marks/sketch.

PHOTOCOPY CARDCompulsory you have one loaded with credit to activate photocopy machine

PAPER CUTCutting down paper to preferable sizes

SCISSORSCutting images and text

MAGIC TAPEHolding down layouts of images and texts temporarily for photo copying

CUTTING MATSmooth and easy cut securing tables from destruction.

KNIFE Cutting images and text

METAL RULERDrawing straight lines, achieving straight and neat cuts

MATERIALS REQUIRED

10 Summer 2008 Term 3


The first task requires us to visually represent lists of words given to us by drawing abstract forms and shapes, making it as simple as possible but not so obvious.Examples of some interesting representation my fellow colleagues can be seen clockwise from my right.

The image to my left shows an abstract representation of the word vision, which is one of my favourite, as the little opening depicts the slight opening of an eye. This is a really strong representation that is used in cartoon illustration/animation to generate the sense of someone dreaming or lost in trance.



Karl (teacher) took us through the outcome of this task, as to why most people had quite similar representations, whilst others having a totally different out come as the meaning of the word could vary e.g... ‘Present’; being in a place at a particular time, ‘present’; a gift and ‘present’; presenting a show. It was also interesting on how people used various ways/approach to represent their words.Various examples can be viewed from the top right.



The second task involves us picking four contrast word pairs from a list of choice as shown to my right. Representing them by cutting out forms/shapes with free hand, bearing in mind that the cut out should be opposite in meaning. Most of us went for the obvious representations, whilst others put themselves to crack the tough choice.Examples of the easy and tough choice representations can be viewed from my top right as follows; Interesting-Boring, Large-Small, Thick-Thin, Pointed-Blunt, Diagonal-circular, e.t.c..



For the third task, we were given a list of words and were to find the contrast words of them. On doing that, we select the four most interesting contrast word pairs and produce simple abstract shapes and forms of them. Some people struggled at first to find the contrast words, but once it clicked they went ahead to produce their outcomes.Examples are; Boring-Interesting, Secret-News, Normal-Abnormal, Fashionable-Old School, Creative-Uncreative.



PPD ELEMENT

This session introduces us to how words can be represented through visualization using simple abstract forms and shapes. It made us connect to our abstracted mind, aiding us to form a mental picture of something or someone that best suits each of our chosen words/word pair.Through the first task, most of us found ourselves struggling, but eventually got along with the flow. Where as, the second and third task helped us build on what we have learnt from the previous task, which made it as easy as we knew how to visually represent a word from seeing the opposite pair.To me, this skill would be vital which can come as an highly useful advantage in the industry like advertising, animating, logo creations, to anything linked to design really.

CONTRAST

TEXTURURE

IntroductionThis session introduces us to using texture to create visual interesting contrast to represent word pairs. Upon completing the last session, we were set an homework task against this session to collect as many textures as possible through rubbings on black media on white paper A4 size.


Contrast: Texture









MATERIALS REQUIRED


Contrast: Texture

The first task was easy and straight forward. We had to crop and cut the most interesting and detailed parts of our texture rubbings into 120mm squares producing as many as possible. I took close observations to parts of my rubbings that had pronounced details to be cropped. I have also taken into consideration cutting at different angles which could all come as an advantage later on. The bottom two examples shows two of my rubbings which I experimented with the type of paper i.e. colour and tracing paper. Whilst the top two shows examples of my fellow colleagues interesting rubbings.


Contrast: Texture

Moving on to the second task, we had to put our croppings next to each other in pairs, producing a contrast between the two textures. Selecting 4 texture squares, we title each pairing them with 2 words that are also contrast. As we had loads of random textures, it made it easier to choose from a range suiting the latter texture.Above me shows work in progress as Orlagh (teacher) comes around to give students a better understanding on how to best produce their desired contrast pairs.To my left counter clockwise, shows a closer look at interesting outcomes of students work that was produced for this task.


Contrast: Texture

The third task required us to produce another texture square contrast, but selecting from the list of words contrast from the first session. This was straight forward as the most of the contrast words suited the texture rubbings.More examples can be viewed on the right hand side of the page.


Contrast: Texture

For the fourth task, we had to select the best contrast pairing textures from Task 2 or 3 and produce a simple composition that enhances the chosen contrast. We were allowed to make alterations only to the scale, proportion and placement yet keeping it simple.On producing my first alteration, I did not abide to the instruction given. Regardless of this, the outcome was effective as my colleagues could recognise what the contrast was. Unfailingly, I went ahead to produce some more composition abiding by the instruction given this time around. We can view the examples to my right.


Contrast: Texture

PPD ELEMENT

On completing this session it made us more efficient in representing words abstractly but in this case making use of textures. It also made us think in depth about the meaning to several words as to best match with its chosen texture. Experimenting with lots of random pairings, gave us a visual understanding to what we should see/to be viewed on using or hearing this words (vice versa). On the other hand, this session has been amazingly interesting on how type can be used as textures and vice versa. It can also give a nice effect if used as wallpaper (moods conveyed from wallpaper), patterns on toilet rolls, prints on fabrics, card prints e.t.c.Above all, one can achieve desired effects if well planned/thought of.

Spring 2008 Term 2 25

Contrast: Texture

CONTRAST

NEGATIVE SPACE

IntroductionFor this session, we were working with positive and negative space, as to view/see how an image could be best presented or look appealing to the eye.


Negative Space









MATERIALS REQUIRED

30 Spring 2008 Term 2

Negative Space

The first task involved us producing positive and negative versions of the images provided to us as to gain an understanding of how an image should look like upon reflection.Yet another straight forward task but could prove tricky in terms of shapes of images to be cut out.Examples of different outcomes can be viewed from the top right of this page.


Negative Space

On completing this first task, I have produced my version of symbols/patterns in both positive and negative form. This helped me gain more understanding about negative and positive spaces.Close up of some of my images can be viewed from the top right.


Negative Space

Task two involve us making a replica of supplied images portraying them as positive or negative form to look more appealing/interesting. We were to guide ourselves by paying attention to the positive and negative space on the image (i.e. light and dark area). We made use of tracing paper as it was the suitable medium to get a clear view on any change while editing our image.From my top right, examples of general outcomes can be viewed.


Negative Space

For the third task, we were to generate several ideas of composed images, using supplied clip art silhouette. We first composed our first image by combining both positive and negative form of an image as a whole. Later on, we composed several images together to form/represent our first image. On completing this, we were supplied positive and negative text as to use them to describe our image with a simple word. Tracing the word over our images, we switch between black and white where they intersect for easy reading.Examples of work can be viewed to my right from the top.


Negative Space

Lastly, we are to select from the example sheets of existing negative and positive techniques applying one of them to our chosen image making it visually interactive.


Negative Space

Here are examples of several outcomes generally which are all quite interesting in sense of how they have been represented.


Negative Space

PPD ELEMENT

During this session, we have covered quite a lot. Starting from several ways one can portray an image better either in negative/positive form. It has increased our knowledge of editing an image. Also taking us through how images can and could be portrayed making us more aware of image compositions as simple silhouettes. The skills acquired through this session has proved very effective, which comes as a great advantage for image editing, composing images, e.t.c. and most especially advertising/illustration.


Negative Space

GRID&

NUMBERS

IntroductionFor this session, we looked at the geometry in art/design and most especially life/reality.


Grids & Numbers









MATERIALS REQUIRED


Grids & Numbers

Before we commenced on the set tasks, we were introduced to Fibonacci number sequence which most of us were not familiar with. It is the set of numbers following in order upon addition of the two previous numbers. From here, Orlagh (teacher) brought to our knowledge about the creation of Golden rectangle and the use of Van De Graaf Grid. We were handed A5 sheets consisting of several little rectangles, which we had to select one that we preferred. Surprisingly, most of us went for the same choice of rectangle shape (5:8) which shows that it is the perfect size or most accepted size for a triangle.


Grids & Numbers

For the first task, we were to create a set of Van De Graaf Grids within different set of frames provided. We went about this by drawing as many lines from the corner of the frame right across to the other corner and marking any line of intersection as to form a grid structure. From these lines of intersection, several grid layouts can be constructed and used for design.Examples can be viewed to my left from the top of the page.


Grid & Numbers

For the second task, we were to make tracings of four different structural relationships from the supplied image of the leaf provided to us. We used the ‘Bruno Munari’ hand out as an inspiration guiding us to produce our structural relationships. Ascending down from the top right of the page, are several examples of the structural representation which turned out really interesting.


Grids & Numbers

The third task involved us getting in groups of five, and organize a presentation within two hours for several assigned tasks. From the top left, the first presentation involved them portraying the ‘Fibonacci Number Sequence’ with provided Lego toy bricks. They have varied the number of bricks used for each letter as a number sequence i.e. 5 bricks for the first letter, 10 for the next, then 15 for the next.... Fortunately for them, they were voted the best group presentation overall. The second showing series of numbers descending down each floor in sequence.The third showing a collage with varying sizes of the golden triangle from small to big.The last symbolising the number three as a magic number as sequence of numbers a placed in a dark tunnel with music in the background.


Grids & Number

PPD ELEMENT

Yet again another session that proved very rewarding in terms of techniques and ways of representing images structurally and generation of grid layouts for designs. From this various techniques, we can apply them in designs for an outstanding, interesting and distinct outcomes that have not been imagined. Making it an unlimited great advantage for us for generating basic designs and on working in the industry. For me this session has built up my team work and generally added to my understanding.


Grid & Numbers

COLLAGE&

JUXTAPOSITION

IntroductionThis session aims at the understanding of the power of juxtapositions and collage within visual communication and to work as a large group in a democratic manner.











MATERIALS REQUIRED



The first session involved us pairing up into groups of five, creating several A6 landscape handmade collage possible making use of found and recycled materials based on 10 supplied subjects; Architecture, Colour, Communication, Environment, Machines, Play, Religion, Reproduction, Science and Time.



We first selected the useful bits of our found objects that applied to each of our chosen themes, regardless of it being relevant or not. After this stage, we had to compose our collage to suit our chosen theme making as many as possible. We all worked strongly as a team supporting each other and generated several ideas for one another.Examples of the various works generated can be viewed from the top left of the page. (Music, Machine, Play, Work in progress.)



As this was a whole day session, we kept producing more collage with the intention of breaking the record of the previous group that was assigned this project. As the record of the last group was ‘345’ collages in total. More examples can be viewed from the top right of the page.



Hurray! Hurray!! Hurray!!! As we proved to be the group that were productively determined to beat the set record. Winning just by one by one collage over the last group ‘346’. Above we rejoice and congratulate ourselves for proving to be a group of determination, a group of mind blowing creative composers and lastly not forgetting a group of strong team spirit along with co-ordination.



PPD ELEMENT

An outstanding performance and creativeness put into action in this session. In the process, developed and contributed greatly to our sound knowledge of overflowing ideas. Not to mention its positive effect that has helped in our team work and capability of withstanding working in a busy environment. This has been yet another creative session that has offered us a great skill that would prove rewarding from here on in our lives especially in the industry and day to day life.

COLOUR

RESEARCH

IntroductionThis session introduces us to several desired moods/emotions can and could be generated in design for a better communication with audience


Colour Research









MATERIALS REQUIRED


Colour Research

For the first session, we were introduced to the various uses of colour and how it applies or suits several emotion/moods. The first task involved us carrying out a survey on several emotions people feel on viewing a particular colour. We were given handouts of colour swatches and how to go about the research. We were to ask ten people on what they felt personally, choosing from a range of emotions; Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear, Surprise, Disgust. This was fun as lots of people made loads of friends on asking random people on the campus, which all of the people that participated reconnected with their inner emotions in a long time. Bringing back memories from long time.On completing this, had to convert our data into percentages against the next session.


Colour Research

The next task involved us representing our emotional colour survey data, as a chart/stripes/shapes and so on making use of our percentage converted from the recorded data. This helps us to visually represent our data in an easier manner for an easier understanding. Examples of several outcomes can be viewed from the top left of the page.


Colour Research

We were then asked to write down experience or situations that we have been through relating to the emotions, all on the same big sheet of paper as to help us generate a graphic representation of several emotions. It was funny as it unravelled long lost memories from our past to present, which was a great laugh for all of us.We had to get ideas from all that has been written and integrate with supplied or preferably your own silhouettes to portray several moods against next session.


Colour Research

The outcomes of the illustrations gave a really nice effect on how the colour had been co-ordinated as we made use of the research data on colour emotions making it convey reality. This has helped us in solving and representing data to simplify a complex graphic composition and illustration. Examples of outcomes can be viewed from the top left of the page conveying several emotions.


Colour Research

PPD ELEMENT

This session has played a lot with our emotions and memory leaving us in varying emotions which has its positive and negative effects in our lives. It would be of great essence if one can master the logic behind generating designs of desired emotions. Above all, it has also contributed to our researching standards, making our researching choose our decisions as to find a solution to a complex problem graphically by representation. To me it would be of great advantage for anyone who finds his/her interest lies in illustration and also prove rewarding to basic composed designs. A reliable and efficient skill it would turn out to be in the industry especially in the illustration field.


Colour Research

FORM

PAPER LETTERS

& LIGHT

IntroductionThis session helps us to discover the possibilities of form to generate images and type in 3D space and the endless possibilities of paper as a medium in its own right.


Form & Light









MATERIALS REQUIRED


Form & Light

For the fist task, we experimented with as many techniques as possible to build interesting forms with paper. We had to consider making abstract forms instead of model making. We were only allowed to stretch, score, crumple, compress, puncture, bend, tear, fold, crease e.t.c. But bearing in mind that we are not to make use of scissors or scalpel. This was really interesting how people approached this differently, as we had people even chewing or rather eating paper surprisingly. We also took to consideration which way the grain of the paper folds as to enhance easy manipulation of paper making forms.Examples can be viewed from the top right of the page. An interesting outcome generally.


Form & Light

The second task involved us taking 3 letters from that alphabet to build a 3D version of each using and developing the techniques used from the first task and others that looked interesting.We were not allowed to draw onto the paper or use any cutting tools, and making the letters stand alone could make it more useful. Also not restricting ourselves from making the letters recognisable from every view point. Different approaches has also been applied to this process giving several random effects. Examples of interesting letter shapes can be viewed from the top left of the image


Form & Light

The third task involved us using light and dark to give as much contrast as possible making use of any source of light i.e. natural light, projectors, light boxes, overhead projectors e.t.c. More importantly enhancing its effect to make a difference.Examples of several outcomes can be viewed from the top right of this page.


Form & Light

The fourth task involved us using a strong light source such as a digital projector, or desk lamp generating silhouettes of your characters onto a sheet of paper stuck to the wall. We also experimented with tracing silhouettes.Examples of the outcomes can be viewed from the top left of the page. Generally the outcome has been productive.


Form & Light

PPD ELEMENT

Generally, this has been a very promising and very productive session that would prove rewarding industrial wise probably exhibition display/planning. It made us more open and confident in using our bare hands only to creatively produce design 3 dimensionally. To me this has been really valuable and could give a very good effect on incorporating other ideas or techniques/skills acquired from the past. In other words its possibilities are endless.


Form & Light

EVALUATION

IntroductionThis session helps us to explore, evaluate and think of how the outcomes produced and subject matter covered in the previous seven sessions can be used and integrated in the near future.


Evaluation









MATERIALS REQUIRED


Evaluation

The first task involved us laying out all of our work produced, and writing reflections on why we think it looks good and how it can be better portrayed.


Evaluation

For the second aspect, we were to split into six groups consisting of four to six students per group, which we were asked assigned to write up questions based on Who, Why, How, When, Where and What. Each of the groups were to come up with questions starting with the six thinking tools relating to issues raised in the first task.Some of the questions we came up with are;WHO will benefit from all this?WHY are we doing this?HOW can we further develop this?WHEN do we know that we are progressing?WHERE can we apply our skills?WHAT are we getting out of this?


Evaluation

For the third task, we were to combine several questions from each group that related together to form a sequence. In other words seeing visual grammar project from a 360 point of view. Some of the sequence formed were;WHO is benefiting from the sessions?WHY are we going through this?HOW can we apply what we have acquired generally?WHEN would this acquired knowledge prove rewarding to us?WHERE would our acquired skills be useful?WHAT are we going to do with this skills generally speaking?


Evaluation

The next task involved us thinking of dominant ideas that are impossible to escape from, not forgetting the obvious or mundane ideas.Examples were; Able to idea Google without Internet connection, Brain that stores everything playing back at the end of the day, Idea generation from several partying.


Evaluation

This task involved us looking back at what we have come up with so far and seeing the benefits of them. It also involved us looking back at all the work produced so far by everyone in general. This brought more sense to all we have discussed and it could benefit all of us.


Evaluation

From all we have talked on so far, we had to discuss amongst ourselves to come up with a several projects that we could assign for ourselves at the end of the year. Selecting one of them and building over it making it as interesting as possible.Some of the projects we came up with generally were;Animation Episodes, Advertising for spa’s, holidays, Illustrations of everyday live.


Evaluation

PPD ELEMENT

Ending this session brought back a lot of things we have missed out and helped us pieced together bits and pieces that were not up to an acceptable standard. This helped us in generating ideas together that we could have not come up with individually. This has been a very good lesson that has helped me both work wise and how to in tackling several aspects on achieving a desired standard. It has also helping me make the most of things that cant be avoidable in everyday life.


Evaluation

OF YET

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UOY

DESIGN FOR GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION Yr1 SPRING TERM 2008

visual grammar

Documents

contrast words

word imagethe

word imageintroductioncontrast

word imagefor

word vision

word imagekarl teacher

interesting representation

list of words