Graphic design solutions

Introduction. Objectives

Defining graphic design

The graphic designer's job

The design procedure

Critique guide

Looking at the illustrations

Fundamentals of graphic design. Part 1. Formal elements: Line, shape, color, suggestions, value, texture, format

Part 2. The principles of design: balance, emphasis: focal point and hierarchy, rhythm, unity

Part 3. The manipulation of graphic space: positive and negative space, illusion, 12 exercises, 12 projects. Overview of graphic design. Four components of graphic design solutions

Strategy

Concept

Suggestions

Design

The graphic elements

Suggestions

Craft

Suggestions

Critique guide revisited

The design profession

Designing with type. Message, audience, and format

Letterforms

Nomenclature

Typographic measurement

Basic type specifications

Classifications of type

Suggestions

Type and visuals

The principles of design and type

Type and expression

Designing with type

Tips from designers

2 exercses

2 projects. Layout. The grid

1exercise

1project

Logos, symbols, pictograms, and stationery systems. 7 exercises

4 projects

Posters. 1 exercise

2 projects

Book jackets and CD covers. 1 exercise

2 projects

Packaging and shopping bags. 2 exercises

3 projects

Visual identity and branding. Turn your brand into an icon!

Inventing a company name

1 exercise

1 project

Advertisements. The creative team

Types of ads

Elements of an ad

Four components of an ad

The creation of a print ad

Advertising concepts: what's the big idea?

Where do big ideas come from?

The ad campaign

Advertising stratagems

Television commercials

Critique guide

Expression

Creative approaches

Stimulation

8 exercises

6 projects. Annual reports. Themes

Design principles

1 exercise

1 project

Web design. Major elements

Design considerations

Approach to promotional sites

1 exercise

1 project

The portfolio and job search. Advertising portfolio

Advice from three graphic design professors

Self-promotionals

Suggestions

Projects: HangTag designs

Book jacket series

Logo

Snowboards or skateboards

Brochure

Contents of a generalized graphic design portfolio

The career search process

Preparing for the interview

The interview

Appendix A. Graphic desing materials, tools, and processes. Tools and equipment

Papers

Drawing tools

Adhesives

Processes

Production.