Post #6

What is the pen tool used for?




The pen tool is used in Adobe Illustrator in order to create a curved line that follows a certain degree of curvature, or path. This tool creates two "anchor points" that can be manipulated in such a way to create the line.

How can you manipulate a path/line in Illustrator? Discuss the use of the white arrow tool. Pen+, pen-,and convert tool.


A path or a line can be manipulated in Illustrator by clicking and dragging in order to move the path or line, its anchor points can be modified by the handles in order to curve the line or deleted altogether. The white arrow tool, or the direct selection tool, allows the user to select one line or point in particular. The Pen+ tool adds an anchor point to a line, and the Pen- tool removes one. The convert tool changes smooth points into corner points, or anchor points.

How can you utilize the layers palette in Illustrator?


The layers palette in Illustrator can be used to change the order and opacity of different layers, allowing some to overlay onto other layers, or be slightly transparent, creating a new design.

How do you create a clipping mask in Adobe Illustrator?

You first create an object that you want to use as a clipping mask, for example a rectangle with a circle cut in the middle in order to create a circular opening. Then move the mask over everything that you want to mask, both in different and same layers. The simply go to Object>Clipping Mask>Make.

Post #5

For each of the 5 elements of design (shape, line, texture, space, value), find an example that utilizes each element within the design (Google search for poster design, advertisement, etc.). You should have 5 DIFFERENT sample designs.  For each, evaluate the design in 4 to 5 sentences.  Label each with the appropriate element.  Then, discuss how that particular element is used and how it enhances the design.


1: The Black Swan (Space)

This advertisement for the movie, The Black Swan makes an extremely efficient use of Space in order to create its design. The large amount of white and gray space surrounds the main center design, the swan/eye. By providing such a large space, the contrast of the black and red on the background of the white more effectively forms the image of a swan, also chiseled out of the eye. The eye in itself spaces grey curved points among the white in order to resemble the makeup applied to the eyes of a ballet dancer, of which is one of the main focuses in the movie.

2: The Shining (Value)

This poster for the movie The Shining, based off the book of the same name by Stephen King, makes a great use of value in order to convey a message. Dark orange and black of the trees is used to create an eerie atmosphere in this horror movie. The center of the poster sees a maze that is given a rusty, spotty brown coloring, indicating that it is possibly old, or set in an abandoned place. Finally, the white coloring towards the background, as well as the white circle and shading are to also create a spooky atmosphere, showing the full moon and a misty environment.

3. Buried (Texture)

This poster, for the movie Buried makes an excellent example of the use of Texture in a design. The white on black, coupled with the shaky and uneven lines provides the illusion of depth and falling, even though it is printed on a two-dimensional surface. The use of black and white on the lying person also shows texture, attempting to show the wrinkles of clothes and the features of a face.

4: Tree Scout (Shape)

The poster shown above for the movie Tree Scout makes a use of shape in order to convey its message. The green triangles strewn about the design are used in some parts to resemble trees on a topographical map. This is in a rather simplistic style that also tells the audience what the movie might be about, nature. In addition to this, other triangles to the top of the design are placed in a way resembling directional arrows.

5: American Psycho (Line)

The poster for American Psycho shown above is an example of the use of line in design. Particularly in the knife placed on the left side, striped lines are placed over this blade shaped object to also make it resemble a tie. This suggests that the main character is a normal person who has a secret. 

Post #4

Why/how can icons be used to communicate?

Icons are representatives of certain ideas and themes, such as the light bulb being an Icon for the idea of an idea. These icons resemble the ideas or items that they represent.

 

Via the internet, find 2 examples of common icons that clearly communicate their message. 
Post both in this entry and explain your choice.

 
 The headphone icon clearly communicates its message, showing that headphones can be used with this device, commonly placed alongside an audio jack.
 
 This phone icon, modeled after the common dial phones of the mid 1900s is commonly placed alongside areas where phones may be used, or one is available for public use, such as on pay phone boxes



What is the difference between copyright and public domain?

Copyright is an idea, work or other intellectual or tangible property that is protected by law to be used only with permission of the copyright holder. Public domain is an idea, work or other intellectual or tangible property that is NOT protected by law, and thus can be used by any person, so long as this use is legal.

 
How can you avoid plagiarism in this class?  In other classes?
Plagiarism can be avoided in this class by protecting them from access by other people in the class, and to provide proper awareness of the disadvantages of copying another's work.
 

Post #3

What is OSHA? What do the letters stand for?

OSHA is the Occupational Safety Health Administration, a main government charged with the enforcement of health and safety in the workplace.


How can graphic designers effectively communicate? In your own words, explain the communication process.

Graphic designers effectively communicate using verbal and online communication methods that include email and text in order to properly stay in touch with other graphic designers.


Understanding the history, culture and movements of fine and graphic arts will make you a better producer of visual messages. Why?

Understanding history, culture and movements of art will assist in using certain historical styles and incorporating them into your designs, as well as properly understanding upcoming design trends and adjusting to compensate.

Post #2

What does it take to create good graphic design?

Good graphic design requires both individual talent and skill as well as knowledge of the elements of art and how a piece of design is made

What is the difference between elements and principles?

Elements are the building blocks of design, whilst principles are the applied use of these building blocks in order to create the design

Name the six (6) elements of design.

The six elements of design are: Line, Shape, Color, Value, Texture and Space

What can lines aid in, when alone or combined with  other lines or shapes?

Lines can aid in guiding the eye of the viewer to other parts of the work, or to create an interesting or moving design.

Which lines suggest a feeling of rest? Why do you think?

Horizontal lines. They are often attributed with areas to rest or sit, such as beds, benches and homes.

Vertical lines communicate a feeling of what? Why do you think?

Granduer, loftiness. They are attributed with things that are tall, such as columns and high ceilings

What lines suggest a feeling of movement? Why do you think?

Diagonal lines. Things in nature normally do not move in perfect horizontal and vertical directions, thus diagonal lines are more characteristic of normal movement.

Soft, shallow curved lines suggest what? Why do you think?

Comfort, safety and relaxation.Soft curves are usually more comfortable to be around, such as pillows.

These lines suggest confusion and turbulence? Why do you think?

Curved lines. Curves are more turbulent in nature.

What element defines a specific area of space? What is the difference between two dimensional shapes and three dimensional shapes?

Shape, two dimensional shapes include both width and height. Three dimensional shapes are similar, except that they also contain depth.

Describe the difference between geometric shapes and organic shapes?

Geometric shapes are structured and symmetrical, such as hexagons, squares and triangles. Organic shapes meanwhile are found in nature and are often irregular and fluid.

 
Which basic shape projects an attitude of honesty or equality?

The Square

 
What do triangles suggest?

Action, or stability if it is pyramid shaped 

 
Circles convey feelings of what?

Feelings of protection and infinity.

Describe positive space and negative space? What is texture? Incorporating texture into a design can help do what? What is value?

 Positive space is the objects and elements used in a design, while negative space is the areas between these elements and objects. Positive space can include the lines, shapes and text that makes up the graphic. Texture can be the actual surface of the design, or something that the reader can feel, like the surface of a paper. It can also be the visual illusion of these properties, created by the designs. Incorporating texture into design can help to create a feeling of depth and richness. Value is the degree of light to dark, from black to white and every color in between.

What is another name for value? What can the element of color do when incorporated into a  design?

Value is also known as tone. Color can convey mood, create images and attract attention.