For about 2 weeks, we designed an exhibition schedule poster for the Fine Arts Gallery at Cal State LA. I launched into my project (not initial comps though. bad girl.) thinking that I would really explore type this time. I was determined to really get into my work and spend a lot of time.
Initially I wanted to do something that was a bit inspired by David Carson's work. I ended up picking something else. I noticed that I have a real tendency of not going outside of my limits and really exploring type. I don't know, but I must be constraining myself. It's strange because I have no problems when it comes to drawing or painting.
Now I wonder if I chose the right comp? Or was it the process I went through that was where I went wrong? Maybe you're wondering what the heck I'm saying.
After receiving the critique from class, I thought seriously over my design process.
I asked myself a couple questions:
1. Am I exploring all the aspects of design, visual communication, color, typography?
I think I still consider type as simply text and not an element of design. Ah-ha. So this is why I feel like I'm so constrained when I deal with type. I should be able to apply all the design and art elements I've learned until now to my work. The fact that it's turning out so rehashed and boring probably means I'm not doing that.
2. Do I even start my work with a purpose, an idea, a message to communicate?
I find myself relying on the guidance of my instructors, directors, etc to pick a direction or idea to start off my design work. This is generally good because as a designer, I should know what the client wants. But as an artist, a creator of art, it's pbhtttt... In other words, I really need to work on getting out into the world and gathering lots of ideas and building up my creativity.
After answering my own questions, I felt a new sense of determination as a designer. I hope everyone else in class felt that the critique was helpful. Even though it's hard to accept sometimes, I think it helps develop my design skills tremendously.
5 comments:
Love your thinking process. We often need this kind of inner searching of meaning to get us moving to the next level. I always love your works and I was so proud of the whole Art 413 class, cs as a whole, I think we did a GREAT job. So take courage
I think this type of self-reflection can be very helpful in your development. I'm constantly asking myself similar questions, after completion of each project.
In typography class, its the best place to explore typography and just use itself as a means of design. Take it for a second time around, like I did, you learn more each and every time.
Hi Jennifer:
I wanted to comment on your dada book you did in Jimmy's class. Wow, it was such a switch from the gallery poster you did in the last project. I know I was a little critical of your poster in that critic (nothing personal!) What happened? How did you go from that project to this one?? Did you simply enjoy this project more than the poster? Your book came out so fine! I would agree with jimmy that you can take it even further and it can be a great peice for your portfolio! You really got the message across about the manifesto in an interesting exploration. Keep pushing yourself further and further.
Hi Jennifer,
Though it's a little bit late to comment on your blog, however, I finally have a little time to breathe so that I can check out other classmate's blog. I really do agree with your design and learning process. We have same class before, and I really think you were outstanding while we took the class( You are still great now!) Me, myself, I also have the same problem that to take typograpy as a design element, because we have preset concept that text is just a commnication language and not a design element.
Also, I do like your book design that's big exploration on typography. You really make a big improvement.
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