Visual Communication: Digital Design (Elective)

“In a small way human creative hands imitate this profusion of God, going beyond the minimum requirements of getting the job done. Creative hands are not content to spread on the frosting; they must make a tasteful arrangement of swirls and colour. They don’t just apply a coat of varnish; they polish the surface until it glows like satin. Creative hands do more than plant seeds; they place them in a tasteful and eye-pleasing garden arrangement.” LeRoy Koopman

Overview

In this unit students develop an understanding of how to design using a digital platform. Students are introduced to the design process and how computer software can assist them in producing digital works of art and design. Students get hands-on experience and the opportunity to work to a design brief to understand the core tools and functions of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will be introduced and become comfortable with basic design concepts and the fundamentals of printing. After completing this course, students will know how to work effectively within the Photoshop and Illustrator application to deliver personal creative projects.

Aims

To develop skills using hand and digital graphic software with increasing competence
To be able to select, combine and manipulate elements and principles of design relevant to a brief
To create digital works which explore and communicate themes, issues and ideas
To develop skills in printing and formatting
To analyse, interpret and describe characteristics, structure and aesthetic qualities
To use Art and Visual Communication and Design terminology
To provide personal interpretations and evaluations
To examine the world of advertising

Topics Include

Photoshop tools
Rendering
Image manipulation
Designing to a brief
Appreciation and analysis of digital artworks
Vector artwork

Time Allocation

5 periods elective Semester 1 and Semester 2

Prerequisites

None

Requirements

Levy Cost

Assessment

All class work – ideas, development and final presentations of digital artwork
Appreciation and analysis coursework
Classroom participation

“Now son of man, take a clay tablet, put it in front of you and draw the city of Jerusalem on it”. Ezekiel 4:1