5.2 Process doc - Technologies
In the 5.2 module I explored the importance of technology in graphic design and how I could use that to influence or improve the way I design; looking at technologies I was already familiar with as well as new programs and applications.
5.2 - Mini brief 1 - Is it too loud? - To begin our module on technologies we were given a mini brief to create a campaign that raises awareness about neurodiversity in public spaces. We had to find a way to see how public spaces could be more inclusive and/ or safe. We worked as a group to try and promote this idea of a safe and calming environment within public spaces; I did a lot of sketches to visualise how it would look and as well as that we tried honed in on specifics (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/5-2-mini-brief-1-is-it-too-loud/).
5.2 Mini brief 2 - Media Diet - As continuation of this module I looked back at some of the things I've looked at recently and some of the things that interested me in that week. There's a massive rabbit hole that you could go down looking into all of these things ands I think when people think of consuming information they automatically assume googles at play but the internet isn't the only source of gathering information/ inspiration; it is a great tool to use but I believe we still forget previous endeavours. Part of me wanted to look into design a little more and from this point I have been but regardless there's always more to look into (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/5-2-brief-media-diet/).
The Animation Process: Thoughts and Insights - Moving on in the module we were given the opportunity to explore animation with photoshop. We were tasked to make an animating something for no longer than a few seconds; mainly understanding that we were able to animate in photoshop and how to do that. I am a perfectionist and animation itself requires a lot of learning to get it to look the way you want it to. Overall, I liked it and I'd definitely do it again with a little more practise behind me (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/the-animation-process-thoughts-and-insights/).
Title Screen Progress and Processes - Continuing on in our motion classes we started to like into the title screens and designs in television and motion picture. Movie title screens are the initial text and graphics displayed at the beginning of a film, following studio logos, that introduce the movie. Important aspects of a title screen include typography, colour scheme, and animation; all are key factors into setting the scene for a film. It's something that gets you into that headspace of a movie or film so it's very important to visually set the scene. It really helped me understand and visualise my ideas. I think that it could've been developed more but I did really enjoy it and mapping out my ideas for it. I would definitely do it again (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/title-screen-progress-and-processes/).
5.2 Mini Brief 3: Workflow - To continue our 5.2 module we started looking at work flows and things that could aid you in your own personal workflow. To begin to understand how a workflow works we have to know what it means; a workflow is the sequence of industrial, administrative, or other processes through which a piece of work passes from initiation to completion. I am already starting to see progress. Changes and progressions like these don't happen overnight, regardless, I still plan on making my work flow efficient and productive. Overall, I think I'm getting there (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/5-2-mini-brief-3-workflow/).
2D Motion Graphics: Screen Graphics - In the recent motion class we looked at a UI's, HUD's and HMI's; all of which are used and important in film, television and advertising to name a few. Each and every screen graphic from films and television demonstrates a unique shape language and that is evident in the work that studios create; I've tried to create a simple example of this in the motion tutorial but I will say I struggled. I think it turned out okay and I'm pretty happy with it but I could go on to practice some more. I do think that motion graphics are extremely important in today's industry; it always has been and its development has changed the industry in amazing ways.(https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/2d-motion-graphics-screen-graphics/)
Exploring design: Coding - For one of the mini experimental tasks we've been getting and exploring with; we were tasked with generating 100 distinct variations of the cover using a defined set of parameters. Trying to complete this made me aware of how tough it is to balance your own creative vision and standards of technical accuracy; the entire experience has taught me that generative design exists at a point where there is a constant tension between structure and freedom. I was definitely out of my comfort zone.(https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/coding/)
5.2 Mini Brief 4: Experimenting with Processing - For this mini brief we explored different websites and applications that utilised technology and the ways in which you can use technology. I want to further use these applications to visualise my ideas prior to adding them to the final; visualising effects instead of using it in a design manner. I was also prompted to try out different things and think critically about the fact that technology can support creativity rather than be the one to dictate the results. I did enjoy messing with different applications though; it was fun (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/5-2-2/).
Exploring 3D Animation: Thoughts and Reflections - Moving from more 2D applications to 3D applications we wen onto exploring how to use the basics of 3D modelling software and how to add lighting to that. It was very difficult in my opinion but I’m definitely open to exploring and learning it more. It showed to me that growth comes from being uncomfortable although I do think I could practise more (https://leeds.graphics/fivepoint2/exploring-3d-animation-thoughts-and-reflections/).
5.2 Mini brief 5: 4x6 - So for this mini brief we were given some brief and some outcomes and from there we were told to pick a brief and a response to that brief. It forced me to re-evaluate things I'd done previously and experiment and think about how I could refine my approach. I did like that I got to go back and visit old projects and things so I did enjoy it in that regard as well. (https://leeds.graphics/5-2-mini-brief-5-4x6/).
To sum up, this module was an illustration of the fact that technology should not just be looked at as a mere tool or an accessory of design but rather as one of the major forces that drive creative society of our time. Each of the tasks/pages ranged from motion graphics and coding to 2D and 3D art, and so on, unfolded the ways in which digital tools affect the restructuring of the old methods in our thinking, working and communicating.
Even though I was often in technical difficulty, I took with me a higher understanding of how technology really allows space to be opened up for the experimentation, play, and development of the creative side. It is quite obvious that acceptance of these tools, be it via the playful approach Sicart talks about or the rigorous technical side Connell refers to, is the main ticket any designer who is steering the shifting terrain of contemporary design can hold.
