Document Type

Syllabus

Publication Date

Spring 2024

Course Description

This course will focus on the key elements of visual composition and communication with an emphasis on graphic design foundations. Through an overview of the historical and theoretical background of Design as a discipline alongside studio-based projects, students will cultivate skills in visual problem-solving, analysis and interpretation of content, while acquiring basic knowledge in traditional and digital media Design encompasses vast areas of knowledge and interdisciplinary domains. Within the different areas of practice the field offers, presenting creative solutions to communicate complex information is one of its common goals, but also, the cultivation of future forms, systems and languages. Therefore, this class will encourage process-based approaches and experimentation as tools for learning and developing an authorial voice, understanding the role of the designer/artist as a shaper and interpreter of culture. Students will receive instruction in Adobe Illustrator and/or Adobe InDesign and start developing a portfolio of studies and completed works through course Projects. In addition to this, a selection of readings relevant to course content will be assigned throughout the semester

Student Outcomes

On completion of this course, students will be able to acquire an understanding of and significant practice in the following areas:

  • Basic insight into the key elements of visual composition: understanding of the organization of the visual space and the hierarchical and syntactic structures that produce meaning.
  • Cultivate critical inquiry and visual/digital literacy in the expansive ecosystem of contemporary image culture.
  • Developing basic workflow skills in Adobe Illustrator and/or Adobe InDesign.
  • Foster research habits and consistent studio inquiry for Art & Design projects.
  • Embracing experimentation and risk as part of the making process and as a pathway to discover your personal visual/design language.
  • An understanding of the expansive possibilities of Design for future inquiry and career goal decisions.

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