Process Books & Digital Archives

Process books and Digital Archive due December 9, 2010 - please turn in process book and CD to me in my office, room 465, across from the CMC on the 4th floor. I will be there between 2:30-4pm. You can also turn in these assignments on December 2 during class if you would like to turn it in early.

Wonderful job to you all this semester! I'm a very proud of how much everyone has improved throughout the semester. If I can ever help with other project work or your portfolios, please don't hesitate to ask. It's been a pleasure working with you all!

As a reminder, here is the project briefs for these last assignments from your syllabus. 

PROCESS BOOK / SKETCHBOOK 10%
Create a book to contain all of your sketches and observations relating to graphic design and this class. This should include extensive thumbnail sketches and mood boards for assignments; photocopies, scans, and photographs of reference materials; and bits of things that inspire you – from typefaces and logos used in advertisements to papers with interesting textures. You will be asked to do some exercises in class and/or at home relatable to each project that will be included as well. You may organize your book however you wish, but it should be organized. You will turn it in for a grade on December 9.

DIGITAL ARCHIVE 5%
You will turn in a CD/DVD containing all of your work for this class, with different versions of your files for each of the five projects we complete, from beginning to final. This means you will need to save drafts of the various interactions of your work. Make sure to include your sketches and any other work that supports your final designs. You will organize it first by project and then chronologically by stage and then draft.

for example
Project 1 > 01_sketches > image 1, image 2, image 3
               > 02_concept refinement > variation 1, variation 2
               > 03_final designs > variation 1, variation 2

Please label the CD with your name, class, and Fall2010. You will turn this CD into me Dec 9.

Packaging Templates

Hey folks,

One of the books I brought in has examples of packaging with eps file templates that I have zipped up and uploaded onto my server for you to download (if you need it). I'll bring in the book again on Tuesday if you want to reference it - The book is called "The packaging and Design Templates Sourcebook." 

Here is a link to download the templates.

I believe the files are seperated by chapters. They are eps files and can be opened in Illustrator and Photoshop.

Hope this helps!

Schedule for Remainder of the Semester

Can you believe it! Almost finished with yet another semester! Here is the revised schedule for the remainder of this semester. As you can see, I have pushed our final critique for this project to December 2nd. Your final process book + digital archive should be turned in December 9th (This is our scheduled Finals time so it should not interfere with other classes)

It's been a great semester. Keep the momentum going!

T.NOV9 - Final Critique Project #4, Introduction of Project #5

TH.NOV11 - Choose product to redesign – Come to class with research of existing product and packaging / outside research and inspiration. Start sketching ideas / prototyping 3D packaging ideas.

T.NOV16 - WORK DAY – Continue research, sketching and prototyping.

TH.NOV18 - In-progress critique – Pinup at least 3 different concepts for package design ideas with supporting sketches & prototypes. Turn in your hard copy of your Creative Brief.

T.NOV23-NOV 25 - Thanksgiving Holiday

T.NOV30 - Bring in drafts of your final boards for presentation, your prototype, and images of prototype. Last check-in before final critique.

TH.DEC2 - Project #5 Final Critique. Turn in (2) Boards + Final PERFECT Prototype!
TH.DEC9 - Turn in Process Books + Digital Archive to me - 4th floor - room 463 between 2:30 - 4pm.

Project #5 - Package Redesign Introduction & Examples

For your last project of the semester, we will be redesigning a package for an existing product currently on the market. The choice of this product is crucial to the final presentation. Choose something which will inspire, encourage, and initiate lofty creative design ideas for the FINAL work of this semester. I would suggest you choose a product which is in dire need of redesign instead of those packages which are already successful from their point of purchase delivery. Please review full project brief here!

Some online resources for you to check out:
http://www.packagingoftheworld.com/ - professional site showcasing award winning package design
http://www.packagedesignmag.com/ - magazine website that focuses on packaging.
http://vandelaydesign.com/blog/design/packaging-design/ - Blog about some neat package design projects.
http://inspirationfeed.com/2010/07/60-creative-examples-of-food-packaging-design/ - Examples of food packaging
http://www.youthedesigner.com/2010/11/01/30-bizarre-and-creative-packaging-design-examples/ - Blog article with some neat examples of packages
http://www.thecoolhunter.net/design/The-Power-of-The-Box---Powerful-Packaging-Design/ - Blog article with some interesting examples of packaging.

Previous Student Work Examples:
http://gsuexamples.blogspot.com/2009/08/grd3000-package-re-design.html - Examples from Stan
http://ptgrdgsu3000fall09.blogspot.com/2009/12/packaging-photos-more-will-be-uploaded.html - Some examples from Paige's class last year.

Creative Brief Outline

Nice job working on your creative briefs for project 4! For the next project, you will be required to write a more extensive creative brief to turn in (typed in a more formal document - word document is sufficient) following the discussion we had in class. See below for outline notes. Also, feel free to include imagery and/or links that will support your content. For example, please include imagery of the existing product packaging and POP displays (in the store). You should also include your outside research in this document!

Side note: I will not be formally checking your process books for this project - Your CB will replace this. I will formally review your sketching and prototyping during the in-progress pinup.

A hard copy of your CB should be turned in to me on November 18th.

1. Overview / Background
1. Title / Background of the Project / Research regarding project
2. Describe the current market of project - Outside Research
1. what is successful / unsuccessful in market
3. Goals and Requirements of Project
1. required needs of the project - client needs
2. size dimensions, etc. 
2. Target Audience
1. Who is this project for? How will you design your project to speak to this audience
2. Demographics. Describe the person who will use this product.
3. What should you do speak to this demographic? What should you avoid when thinking about this demo/group/target?
3. Tone / Image
1. Is the design formal, serious, funny, or _____?
2. Visual cues / iconography / symbolism / imagery / type you may employ in your design and why?
3. Process goals - How will you implement your design? (i.e., illustration, photography, mixed media)
4. Messages
1. What are you trying to convey to your specific audience?
1. (i.e., Some of their needs may be straightforward, such as “a cereal box that can be resealed after opening; paperclips that won’t spill in my desk drawer; a teabag that won’t make a mess on the table.” Some needs may be more complex and ephemeral, such as “soap that makes me feel young; batteries that won’t hurt the environment; a pencil that expresses my individuality.")
2. How does imagery / type, etc. successfully convey this message?
3. Does your message fit inline with initial overview information and background and why?

Broken Link - Book Cover Resource

Here is the link for the other book cover resource: http://www.covers.fwis.com/

It should be working now!

GSU Design Student Websites

Stan forward some of the websites done by GRD seniors last year. Enjoy!

www.nathanlinkous.com

www.michellevillasenor.com

www.minsundesign.com

www.thedesignfancy.com

www.yourjustdesign.com

www.veryperrydesign.com

www.sandralodesign.com

www.jasonbyhand.com

www.thegraphicexplorer.com

www.mariosegarra.com

www.jameslinehandesign.com

www.noentrydesign.com

www.baskervillain.com

www.joebuckeldesign.com

www.kariondesign.com

www.chiawongdesign.com

www.chrissyculverdesign.com

www.mjoodaki.com

www.troybedingfield.com

Project 4: Book Cover Introduction & Examples

For this project you will design a cover, spine and back panel for a novel. The cover of a book is the essential tool designed to engage, intrigue, and communicate overall concept. You must choose your book before the weekend - please refer to the book list in your project statement here.You MUST choose from the list provided, NO EXCEPTIONS!

We have deviated from our original syllabus - This project is due November 9. The schedule will move forward as follows:
Thurs Oct 21 Pick a book from the list provided.
Tues Oct 26 Write a short “creative brief” for review in accordance to research and nuance of chosen book.
Thurs Oct 28 Pin-up 3 design directions, showing different concepts for your cover. Refine strongest concepts.
Tues Nov 2 Work Day – Refine final design.
Thurs Nov 4 Work Day – Refine final design.
Tues Nov 9 Final Project Due

Here are some online resources for inspiration:
The Book Cover Archive: http://bookcoverarchive.com/
Book cover designs: http://covers.fwis.com/

Final deliverables due Nov 9 include:
1. Turn in (1) flush-mounted 12’’x18’’ board (Layout Back, spine, and front flush to each other).
2. Create a full-scale mockup due November 9.

Boards should be composed as follows:

Project 3 Critique

Class is canceled on October 19. Enjoy the day off! Feel free to email me or set up an appointment if you need to discuss your project further.

Project 3 Critique on October 21st, 2:30pm.

Project 1 Resubmittals

This Tuesday (10/12) is the LAST day I will accept reprints for project 1. I will not accept work done after this date.

As a reminder, I typically do NOT accept late work EVER unless very special circumstances occur... in other words, do not assume that this will be option for you. As the Boy Scouts say, Be prepared!

Thank you,
Officer Cat

Project 3 Design Process Check In

Hey folks,

Just a friendly reminder that I will be checking your process books on Tuesday (keeping them until Thursday). If there is stuff you definitely want me to see but you might need to hold onto it make sure you have 2 copies or scan it for yourself. I will DEFINITELY have your process books back by Thursday :)

These are the main things I will be looking for:

1. research regarding your event (i.e., historic and cultural details, script analysis, characters, venue info, sponsers, etc.) Check the details portion of your project brief if this all sounds new to you.
2. at least 3 DIFFERENT sketches of concept ideas
3. Any photos, illustrations, type, mixed media assets you are developing for your poster design.
4. Outside Inspirations. For example, Event posters you like and/or dislike and why. Designers and/or Artists that inspire your work. Other resources you have pulled from that inspired your work.

Also, 1/2 scale mock-up will be due on Tuesday and will be turned into me (to keep). We'll spend the majority of class time talking about our mock-ups as a class and lending feedback to each other's work.

Try to avoid the midterm blues and keep up the good work!

How do I figure out my midterm grade?

You have had 2 projects that have been graded so far, both are 15 points each.

To figure out your midterm grade

1. add the points earned from project 1 with the points earned from project 2 
2. divide the total by 30
3. convert to percentage in order to figure out the letter grade. 

Also, If you are unsure of your absenses, let me know and I'll give you that information.

Some cool online sources for inspiration

Remember, absolutely NO found imagery! All original art!

Here are some links with cool posters:

http://designreviver.com/inspiration/30-inspiring-poster-designs/

http://wellmedicated.com/inspiration/50-amazing-gig-posters-sure-to-inspire/ Some of these are better than others, but a good resource for a variety of directions you could go in.

http://www.allposters.com/-st/Exhibition-Event-Posters-Vintage-Art-Posters_c79606_.htm

http://www.zazzle.com/event+posters

Also, google search images: event posters, posters, cool posters, etc...

Some links to Photoshop / Illustrator Poster Design Tutorials... these may be helpful or not - but just in case.

http://dzineblog.com/2009/12/30-cool-photohsop-illustrator-poster-design-tutorials.html

http://www.instantshift.com/2009/08/09/77-excellent-photoshop-tutorials-for-designing-posters/

Event Poster Introduction and Research Resources

Nice job finishing up your print ads folks, but just like our last project... this coming project will be fast and furious - due 10/19! Also, don't forget - process books should be compiled neatly and turned in 10/12 for review.

For your next project, you will create a poster to promote a local theatrical production or local event. You can choose:

• Musicals
• Theatre productions
• Concerts
• Festivals
• Dance Events 
• other types of events may be chosen, but run your event by me first. 

Please read the project brief here: http://www.catnormoyle.com/classdocuments/03_Event_Poster.pdf
Check out past examples here: http://gsuexamples.blogspot.com/2009/08/grd3000-theatrical-event-poster-design.html

Some online resources to check out:
http://atlantaplanit.com/
http://clatl.com
http://directory.google.com/Top/Regional/North_America/United_States/Georgia/Localities/A/Atlanta/Arts_and_Entertainment/Theater/

The schedule is as follow:
10/5 - event chosen
10/7 - at least 3 different sketches / start collecting assets
10/12 - Class pin-up. 1/2 scale mockup to turn in.
process books due - make sure to include all project 3 work (or most of it) and inspirations, etc.
10/14 - workday. return process books.
10/19 - project due.

Deadlines for next week!

Tuesday 9/28 - Bring in a full-scale mock-up of 1 of your final ads. You can choose whichever you prefer - either the 8x10, 3x10.5, or 5x5. We will address design, composition, and color in your comps.

Thursday 9/30 - Due for critique - 3 final print ads composed on 2 boards 12x18'', flush-mounted. See other blog post for composition requirements.

How do I choose the BEST concept for this print ad project?

So you've explored all sorts of great ideas for your brand and you have found great supporting imagery, photos, illustrations, and type. So how do you choose the best solution to move into refinement and execution?

1. Consider how well the collage art aspect of the design is? If you have a cool idea but the collage art aspect of the project is lacking, perhaps you should go with a different idea that has a stronger aesthetic look and feel. 
2. Consider the message you are communicating. Is it clear? Does the message convey to your target audience? Does it make sense for your brand?
3. Re-read the project brief in case you forgot any details required for the assignment. Read it for the first time if you haven't read it at all! Make sure you are implementing found imagery, an existing logo, and an existing tagline. 

Your concept should be successful if all these elements are addressed!  After you have chosen your concept, make sure your 3 ads have a general synergy across design elements?

Revised Board Illustration and Dimensions for Collage Project

Collage Project / Print Ad Series Resources

For this project you will create a series of three print ads based on a product, service, or organization.

Think about fashion, technology, household goods, furniture, etc. The final ads should relate to each other by concept and follow a cohesive design program that is evident when the ads are presented. Design principals being addressed in this project are use of space in various formats, typography, composition, and general synergy across design elements.

Take a look at ad campaigns across multiple genres, interests and demographics. See what it is that makes an ad successful or not so successful.

For each concept sketch you create. Be prepared to answer the following questions.
1. What is your message? Is it clear?
2. Who is your target and is your message right for the audience?
3. Is your message appropriate for the product?

Collage Ad Examples

Print Ads of America - leading industry print media

40 Brilliantly Photoshopped Print Ads

Print Magazine - Check out the inspirations section - "Image of the Day" There is some really cool stuff here. If you are a major print design guru.. you should bookmark this page!

Google search images: collage art, print ads, print media, advertisements, etc. for inspirations.

That should get you started! See you Thursday.

Personal Logo Project Boards

For questions regarding your logo layout and colors, refer to the previous examples of work students have done in the past. Some of the images have been cropped for size purposes, but you can see how the black logo sits above the color logo and pantone colors are listed below.

Hope this is helpful in constructing your boards!
B&W, Color Logos

Next Meeting's Agenda - 09.14. Personal Logo Critique

Hey folks,

For Tuesday's class, we will cover a few items.

1. I will return your process books with some notes on your work. We'll go over as a class some good examples of organization and content. Overall, the work is great and I enjoyed looking through everyone's books!

2. Final Critique - Personal Logo Project. We will pin up all boards and talk about the work as a group. I will collect the boards after the critique.

3. We will talk about our next project. I made some adjustments to the project document brief so if you have downloaded a copy previously, grab the new copy here.

Checklist for Logo Success

After our class on Thursday, I thought it wouldn't hurt to review a few things as a class that may make preparing for Tuesday pinup a bit easier. Remember, you must be ready to pinup (5) of your most successful logos for discussion at the beginning of class. The format is 8.5''x11'' white paper - each logo LARGE on one sheet! Also, if you want to get ahead, start scanning the logos you want to import into Illustrator! You will use your sketches to trace in Illustrator next week. Scanning takes up some time so the sooner you digitize your sketches, the sooner you'll be able to start your vector art on the computer :)

If you didn't finish your variations, please do so over the weekend as well. You should start compiling your work thus far in your process book and bring that to class also. You should have at least 50 thumbnails + your outside design research examples in your process book as well.

1. Make sure your logo hits the two aspects of the ven diagram we went over last week. 
1. Your logo/type should communicate something about who you are (sophisticated, mysterious, excitable, extravagance), NOT things that you like (ie. coffee, ice cream, etc.)
2. Your logo should show a strong understanding of how your letter forms relate with each other (alignment, negative space, uniformity, stability, etc.)
2. You logo must be built from your initials (either 2 or 3 letter forms). You can add your name as an additional element, but it should not be the primary focus. 
3. Thin lines and gradients can reproduce poorly, so keep that in mind
4. Think about balance bettwen black and white space in your logo
5. If you get stuck, take a break from your logo development, and do some more research!

Thanks guys! Can't wait to see your great work on Tuesday!

Personal Logo Introduction and Examples

Project Overview
You will develop a personal logo that will become your “signature mark”. It is a self-portrait of you, except it will be comprised primarily of typographic elements. You will use it as a promotional tool of sorts throughout the rest of semester, in that you will adhere it to the back of your boards. It should serve you well, and if it truly is a representation of you, you can continue to use it beyond the scope of the class.

Even the simplest images communicate on two levels – the denotative, or explicit, and the connotative, or suggestive. The mark, form and color should communicate a feeling that resembles you and be memorable and readable. Do the curves and angles of the type suggest playfulness, refinement, extravagance or rigidity? Are the colors loud or soft, shocking or calming? Your choices may be spontaneous and intuitive, but do a lot of research and preparation for this project. Don’t just use the first typeface you come across. Explore lots of fonts! Your logo should be 90% letterforms.

Personal Logo Project Brief

Project 1 Introduction

Project 1 Examples from past students

Logo Resources - Start your researching!

Here are some fun and/or helpful things for you to look through as references...just some inspiration as you start this logo design practice.

Iconic Logo Designers - an awesome site to see some of the greats! Also has several links to other great logo sites.
Logo Lounge - one of my other favorite logo sites
The Logo Design Process from Start to Finish - online article from Just Creative Design. This is a great design blog if you are interested in following other blogs!
What Makes a Good Logo - online article from Just Creative Design.
11 Steps of a Successful Logo Design Process - online article

Welcome to Intro to GRD: 3000

This is an introductory course to the discipline of visual communications. It is not a class that will teach computer software such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, although help,demos, and tips for using these programs will be offered periodically throughout the course. It will educate you in basic design terminology and theory and the development and communication of creative concepts, from inception to completion. Be prepared to verbalize your thought processes as you develop your projects, as class critiques will be a regular event. Your peers and I will offer our insights on your projects in order to make them as strong as they can possibly be. Critiques and class meetings will be held in room 211. Expect to work on class assignments outside of our regular meeting time.