ART 353 Syllabus

0 Commentsby

Spring 2012 / MWF 1 – 2:50pm / DM 224
Prerequisites: ART 352
Instructor: Brandon Young / brandon.young@acu.edu / DM 326

ACU and Department of Art & Design Mission Statements

Course Description

Examination of problems and the possibilities of using design to interpret information. Special emphasis is given to the development of logos and brandmarks. Exploration of how complex concepts and abstract ideas can be made visible and understandable to an audience.

Required Textbooks

Purpose

This course intends to continue the development of each student’s creative thinking process and problem solving abilities with an emphasis on both the creation of brand identities and the communication of complex information visually. Students will explore the use of the computer as a tool for illustration, image manipulation and layout, while developing manual skills such as sketching and writing, through concept development. Special emphasis is given to developing methodologies that assist in establishing criteria for designing effective brand identities.

Objectives

At the conclusion of the course, students should be able to:

  1. Identify, define and analyze problems related to identity and information design.
  2. Gather information relevant to an appropriate design response.
  3. Synthesize multiple variables into creative and effective design solutions.
  4. Describe information hierarchy and the identity development process from concept to the final product.
  5. Utilize the computer at an advanced level to assist in the creative and production processes.
  6. Demonstrate an understanding of design vocabulary, including both concepts and the hardware/software utilized.

Activities

  1. Projects (see process below)
  2. Tutorials
  3. Critiques (individual, group and class)
  4. Class discussions
  5. Lectures

Note: Frequently, time in class will be used to work on projects; however, time outside of class is required to adequately complete each project. It is each student’s responsibility to be prepared every class meeting, and coming to class without the proper tools or materials will have a significant impact on the participation grade.

Process

The studio is the primary vehicle for education in design; therefore, it demands a great amount of preparation in both research/study and design development. The way in which these components are organized, pursued and executed defines a specific design process. In order to facilitate the development of each student’s process, the following exercises will typically be required throughout each project.

  1. Reading
  2. Writing
  3. Researching (precedent and solutions to a similar problem)
  4. Sketching
  5. Rough compositions
  6. Final compositions

While these components are listed numerically, the design process is typically non-linear requiring flexibility and adaptability as the process evolves and the solution emerges. In other words, finding a satisfying design solution often times does not result merely from following steps #1-6 sequentially. New problems (or opportunities) will arise as a design solution begins to develop, which may necessitate a slight adjustment or complete re-evaluation. Please keep in mind that each project has limited time to be completed, so much of the challenge is time management through the design process.

Assignments

Students will be given a recorded grade for each of the projects assigned. All assignments will include a combination of desk, small group and full class critiques. Participation in each of these critiques is required and will factor into your grade. All assignments must be turned in to pass the course. Students are encouraged to discuss earned grades with the professor for further feedback.
Assignment Grade Weights

Grading Scale, Descriptions and Deadline Information

Follow this link for grading scale, descriptions and deadline information.

Policies and Miscellaneous

Supplies + Materials

Each student is responsible for being prepared at every class meeting, which includes having the required tools and supplies to complete projects. Absences will be given for students needing to get supplies after class has started. The following supplies can be found at the ACU Campus Store, Michael’s or Hobby Lobby. Blick Art Materials is a good online source for supplies as well.

Drawing + Comp Tools

  • Pencils and black pens (fine, medium and heavy) for sketching
  • 18″ or 24″ metal ruler
  • Hobby knife (X-Acto, Olfa, etc.) and spare blades
  • Spray adhesive (use it in third floor spray room ONLY)
  • Hand roller (brayer)

Paper and Boards

  • Wire bound sketchbook – 8.5″ x 11″
  • Tracing paper
  • Black and/or grey matboard as needed

Flash drive (2mb min.) or external hard drive to store and backup work. Always store copies of your work in at least two different locations.

NOTE: Other materials may be needed depending on specific solutions to the projects.

PLEASE NOTE: Information in this course syllabus is subject to change at any time during the semester. All changes will be announced in class.

Comment

Add a Comment