LIS 385T.6 Spring 2001

Black Squares
The intention of this problem is to develop a geometric idiom through the discovery of the various two-dimensional design principles needed to extend a limited graphic vocabulary. The necessary principles include framal reference: touching; overlapping and cropping of forms; illusory space; contrast of elements in terms of size, direction, space, and position; and the dynamics of negative-positive relationships. The discoveries result from experimentation with the interrelationships of forms, a vital experience for the growth of a designer developing a personal formal style. Combining these principles can further expand a mere graphic vocabulary into a comprehensive, abstract graphic language, maximizing the possibilities for graphic expression.

Black and White
The Zen concept that a bowl's essence is the part that is "missing" corresponds to the graphic concept of negative space. Apply this idea by using only negative shapes to interpret three of the following subjects visually: clouds, whipped cream, Moby Dick, Jaws, sugar, ghost, salt, polar bear, flour, smoke, vanilla ice-cream cone, and steam. The subjects themselves should not be drawn; only the surrounding negative space and possibly areas in shadow should be addressed, and only in the color black. As a design consideration, the images may be cropped to show only a portion of the subjects. Use the smaller areas for preliminary drawings and the larger areas for final executions.

Jack and Jill
The intent of the Jack and Jill Problem is to develop a visual vocabulary within the parameters of a given set of images, allowing an opportunity to discover and grapple with the infinite possibilities that exist in what might first be perceived as a limited language. This assignment also presents a chance to respond freely to a timeworn nursery rhyme, taking something familiar and revitalizing it through the manipulation of images. This approach expands a designer's problem-solving vocabulary.

Less is More
Creating a simple black-and-white graphic image is a complex design procedure that is fertile ground for experimentation. However, the primary intention of this problem is to move past this point and introduce other design options, which are created by altering the initial design and lie in the realm of the reductive approach.

Revise a Solution
The design problem exercises are devised to help you develop your perceptual sensitivity to the visual qualities and your conceptual awareness of visual stimulation so you will become more competent in visual expression and communications when designing for the web. Now that you have explained the intention of your design problem solutions, and we have discussed in class one another's ideas and methods in solving some of the design problems, you probably could see the strengths and weaknesses in your own execution. Review all of your design solutions and select the weakest one to do a complete redesign.

Evaluate Solutions
Take an objective and critical look at your revised work for assignment H10 and H11. Evaluate your own performance (not your intentions)...