August 20, 2014

Assignment 1 – Composition in Two-Dimensions (Due beginning of class, August 22)

Prior to starting the assignment watch the following video on Inge Druckrey. The video covers many elements of visual design that are essential for all of the design arts. Concepts of figure ground, space, typography, abstraction, order, color, graphic design, and information graphics are covered.

ASSIGNMENT

We will be exploring the idea of design ordering principles (found in Architectural Form, Space and Order). We will review this in class. Plan to purchase this book (not available in the bookstore) as quickly as possible. Complete three different compositions as instructed below.  For each composition (three total) cut an 11” x 11” white Bristol board base and arrange the following elements cut from black Strathmore or Canson paper* (80 lb).

VOCABULARY

 Composition, structure, balance, figure/ground, positive and negative space, implied and explicit relationships, variety and unity, frame of reference. Be prepared to discuss your composition in design terms, including the ordering principles.

OBJECTIVE

To consider fundamental design aspects in abstract two-dimensional compositions by controlling the negative (white) area with the placement of the black elements. Make the white space become alive and vibrant by emphasizing contrasting major and minor spaces. 

SHAPES (5 total) 

  • A.  1/4” x 81/4” rectangle
  • A.  1/2” x 23/4” rectangle
  • A.  11/4” square
  • B.  1” circle (trace with lead using circle template, then very carefully cut out circle)
  • C.  “Simple” double free form curve 16” long 1/8” thick    

COMPOSITIONAL STUDIES (3 total)

  1. Create a compositional study with one each of elements “A” (three total elements). All elements may touch, but not overlap. The orientation must be orthogonal, (90 deg) relationship with the frame. With these elements, define a major space and a minor space.  
  2. Create a compositional study with one each of elements “A” and element “B” (four total elements) All elements may touch, but not overlap. The orientation must be orthogonal, (90 deg) relationship with the frame with three of the four elements. With these elements, define a major space and a minor space.
  3. Create a compositional study composed one each of elements “A” “B” and “C” (five total elements) All elements may touch, but not overlap. Compose free form with no orthogonal relationships. With these elements, define a major space and a minor space.

PROCESS (15 total) 

  • For each composition record a minimum of 5 variations with a camera. (Use the best camera you have or can borrow.) Phone cameras are fine. 
  • Photograph each composition from directly above, neatly framed with edges of your composition parallel with the camera frame. 
  • Take the photograph with lots of light such as outdoors, by a window, or directly under a lamp. Make sure that the lighting is even. (This step is very important.) 
  • Save all of your photographs to your computer and be ready to show the faculty at the next class period. 

COMPOSITIONAL OUTCOME (3 total)

  • Based on the objective above select the strongest composition based on studying the 5 photographs from each compositional study. 
  • With each of the compositional studies affix the elements with rubber cement or a glue stick.
  • Craft matters. 
    • Pay attention to the details. 
    • Refine with practice. (Remake pieces are inconsistent or poorly made.)
    • Strive for consistency 

*The items for this assignment can be purchased in the supply store in the Art + Architecture Building.  The white Bristol board (22” x 28”) is located in the drawers in the back of the store.  The black Strathmore is stored in a stand near the drawers.