Intro to Adobe Illustrator

Today we'll begin working with adobe Illustrator. Illustrator is a Vector Based graphics program. So far we have worked only with a Bitmap based graphics program, Photoshop.

For a discussion on the difference between the two programs click the link below:
Vector and Bitmap Images

Here is an example of the same image in both formats. The Vector graphic is on top, the Bitmap graphic is on bottom. Notice that as the Vector graphic is enlarged the edges stay smooth, whereas the bitmap graphic becomes pixelated.


Today we will learn about the some of the basic tools in Illustrator and do a brief exercise using these tools.

Selection Tool
Direct Selection Tool
Pen Tool
Layers Pallette

Photoshop Text Effects Project is due today

The Photoshop Text Effects project is due today at the end of class. After I present the next project this morning you can finish it up.

Photoshop Exercise – Magical Realism Using Scale

Using the provided images plus at least one of your own, (either from the web or a photos you have taken), create a magical realist composition using exaggerated scale. You may select, crop, and place the elements in the composition in any way that presents them in an incongruous, unusual or “super normal” manner.

Activities/Skills/Followed Directions:

Set up document at stated size and resolution.                                                           5/________

Photoshop Skills 

Made precise selections                                                                                                               5/________

Used Transform-scale tool to change at least one selection/layer.                           5/________

Used move tool to move selections from one document to another.                

5/________

Used Multiple Layers                                                                                                                     5/________

Named Layers                                                                                                                                   5/________

Include at least 1 additional image to the composition                                               5/________  

                                                                                     

Creativity

Met requirements for concept: Magical Realism using scale                                       5/________

                                                                                                                               

Helvetica - the Documentary

The class recently watched the documentary Helvetica, a "film about typography, graphic design, and global visual culture." The students were then asked to review the PBS study guide and respond to questions 1 and 9 plus two others of their choice.

1. How does a typeface create a mood, feeling or image? Can

you describe an occasion when you had a particular reaction to

something in print, not because of the content, but because of the

typeface?

2. In HELVETICA, design writer Richard Poynor says, “The designer

has an enormous responsibility” as the person who is “putting

wires into our heads.” What does he mean? How would you define

that responsibility?

3. Think of the font you most commonly use when working on your

computer. Which one is it and why do you use that one?

4. American designer David Carson says, “Don’t confuse legibility

with communication.” What does he mean? What’s the difference

between them?

5. How is design an expression of the times? How does politics

affect the art of design?

6. What is your reaction to the grunge style of type and design? Why

do you think you respond to it that way?

7. Imagine that the post office, your local bank or other government

or corporate entity whose signage is familiar to you started using

a different typeface. How would that change their image or your

feeling about that business or organization?

8. What might you take away from this film in terms of possible

effects on your work or other aspects of your daily life?

9. What changes, if any, has this film made in how you think about

print and graphic design? 

The responses are in the comment sections below.