TYPOGRAPHY ✿ TASK 2: TYPOGRAPHIC EXPLORATION & COMMUNICATION ✿

 TYPOGRAPHY ✿ TASK 2: TYPOGRAPHIC EXPLORATION & COMMUNICATION ✿

03.04.23 - 29.03.23
week 5 - week 7

✿ TAN JIA JIA 0350577 ✿

Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media

✿ LECTURES ✿

Please refer to Task 1.


✿ RECAP ✿

During week 5, Mr. Vinod introduced us to new design software, Adobe InDesign. He first taught us the basics, such as kerning and tracking. Once we were familiar with all the tools, Mr. Vinod began briefing us on Task 2, which involves typographic exploration and communication. The task requires us to create a title that is both creative and meaningful, allowing us to explore its significance.

The requirement of task 2 is as follows:
  • 200mm x 200mm per page.
  • 10 typefaces
  • Graphic elements are allowed (line, shade)
  • No images allowed.
  • In Greyscale.

✿ INSTRUCTIONS ✿

Figure 1 Module Information Booklet


✿ DESIGN PROCESS ✿

1.0 RESEARCH

Mr. Vinod had given us three different texts with different titles: "The Role of Bauhaus Thought on Modern Culture," "A Code to Build on and Live By," and "Unite to Visualize a Better World." All of the texts include lead-in text. After researching all the texts, I have chosen the second text, "A Code to Build on and Live By," as my editorial text, as it is easier for me.

I started conducting research on the internet to assist me with brainstorming. I focused my research on "coding posters" to examine the ideas that designers had been used in their posters as references.


Figure 2.1 Poster design "Times"


Figure 2.2 Coding cards


2.0 IDEATION

I started working on sketches, paying particular attention to the title that needed to be explored. I put in extra effort to refine the title in my sketches.

Figure 3.1 Sketches 1


Figure 3.2 Sketches 2


3.0 LAYOUT

Based on the sketches, I proceeded to draw the title using Adobe Illustrator. I combined both sketches into a single design.

Figure 4.1 Title by using AI

After finalizing the title design, I focused on formatting the text. Considerations such as font styles, sizes, alignment, spacing, and visual hierarchy were carefully taken into account. The aim was to create an engaging and visually pleasing composition that effectively conveyed the intended message.

Figure 4.2 Final Outcome 1


During week 6, I received some feedback from Mr. Vinod through an online class, When formatting the text, it is important to avoid placing the title in the middle as it may become obscured when the book is combined. It is best to keep the title concise and avoid exaggeration. Additionally, ensure there is a reasonable gap of at least 5mm to maintain visibility. It is crucial to avoid placing the title in the middle of making it too small to prevent it from disappearing. So I decided to redo the task from the start again.


Figure 4.3 Sketches 3

In the modified design, I had to move the position of the title from its original central placement to the left side. Moreover, to infuse an element of coding aesthetics, I cleverly repurposed the letters "A" and "y" as symbolic representations of the commonly used coding brackets "<" and ">". This creative incorporation adds a touch of familiarity and playfulness to the overall design, connecting it to the coding realm and evoking a sense of curiosity and intrigue.

Figure 4.3 Title by using AI


After finalizing the new title design, I proceeded to the next step: formatting the text. Instead of having paragraphs staggered, I opted for an aligned left arrangement to ensure a neat and organized appearance. Additionally, I strategically placed the "lead-in text" near the title and increased its size, ensuring that readers immediately notice it upon viewing the content. This deliberate placement aims to grab their attention and emphasize its importance within the overall composition.

Figure 4.4 Screenshot of the final outcome

After receiving Mr. Vinod's approval, I will proceed to use this design as my final design.

Figure 4.5 Final Outcome 2.


3.0 FINAL OUTCOME

Head

Font/s: Serifa Std 45 Light(Small Headline), Univers LT Std 49 Light Ultra Condensed(Large Headline)
Type Size/s: 31pt (Small Headline), 43pt (Large Headline)
Leading: -
Paragraph spacing: -

Body

Font/s: Bodoni 72 Book (Body), Futura Medium Italic (Subheading)
Type Size/s: 9 pt (Body), 10pt (Subheading)
Leading: 12 pt (Body), 12 pt (Subheading)
Paragraph spacing: 20 pt
Characters per line: 61
Alignment: Left aligned

Margins: 12.7 mm (top+bottom+left+right)
Columns: 2
Gutter: 5 mm

Figure 5.1 Final Outcome without grid in jpg


 
Figure 5.2 Final Outcome without grid in pdf

Figure 5.3 Final Outcome with grid in jpg

 
  Figure 5.4 Final Outcome with grid in pdf



✿ FEEDBACK ✿

Week 6

General Feedback: When designing, it is advisable to avoid placing the title in the middle, as it may become obscured or vanish when the book is bound or combined. It is important to maintain a concise and straightforward title, without over-exaggeration. Additionally, ensure there is a sufficient gap of at least 5mm around the title to provide visual clarity and prevent any unintended overlap or blending with other elements. These considerations contribute to a well-executed design that effectively showcases the title and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.

Specific Feedback: When finalizing the design, it is crucial to ensure that the title is not placed in the middle or made too small, as this may result in the title disappearing or being overshadowed. Additionally, attention should be given to the typesetting of paragraphs to ensure correct and neat presentation. Proper alignment, spacing, and readability are key factors in creating a visually pleasing and professional composition. By addressing these considerations, the final design will effectively convey the intended message and leave a lasting impact on the audience.


Week 7

General Feedback: Mr. Vinod provided brief feedback to everyone, and the corrections made by everyone were acknowledged, except for a few individuals who struggled to effectively convey the intended meaning through their titles.

Specific Feedback: Mr. Vinod inquired about the horizontal orientation of the letter "y" in my design, and I explained my intention to represent "A" and "y" as the coding symbols "<" and ">". Mr. Vinod approved of this creative approach after I shared my rationale. My final outcome did not have any significant issues, and Mr. Vinod agreed that it could be used as my final outcome.


✿ REFLECTION ✿

Experience
In Task 2, we were given significantly less time compared to Task 1, which presented us with a greater challenge. However, this assignment was relatively more favorable as it allowed us to apply the knowledge gained from Task 1. For instance, we utilized our understanding of type expression and text formatting. I faced numerous obstacles when designing the headline, such as feeling unsure about which text to choose to fulfill the task. Moreover, I ended up completing the assignment on the day before the class. Through this experience, I learned the importance of not rushing to achieve perfection within a short timeframe. Additionally, I gained a deeper understanding of how to utilize InDesign effectively.

Observation
Throughout the assignment, my main observation was the expressive power of the title. By referring to other designs repeatedly, I discovered that a simple element was often sufficient to convey the entire essence of a title. I was particularly impressed by a classmate who used just a single line to represent the concept of "unite," showcasing their innovative thinking. During the process of designing the title, it became apparent that it was important to focus on conveying the meaning of one specific word rather than creating arbitrary visuals. By doing so, readers would grasp the intended message of the title and become intrigued to learn more about the book's content. Therefore, the goal was to emphasize the meaning of a single word, effectively capturing readers' interest and compelling them to explore further.

Finding
Through Task 2, I gained a clear understanding of the significance of the correlation between the headline and the body text. A well-crafted headline has the power to provide readers with a brief insight into the essence of the book. If the headline design lacks a connection with the content, it can appear redundant and overly complex, failing to evoke readers' desire to engage further. Additionally, I learned that placing the headline in the middle of a two-page spread would diminish its impact and visibility. It is essential to carefully consider the interaction between the headline and the body text, ensuring a logical sequence that guides readers in their reading journey. Random placement can confuse readers and make it difficult for them to determine where to start reading.


✿ FURTHUR READING ✿

Figure 6.1 "Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann

"Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann is a seminal book that explores the use of grid systems in graphic design. Published in 1981, it has become a classic reference for designers seeking to create visually harmonious and structured layouts.

The book begins by introducing the concept of the grid as a foundational tool for organizing elements within a design. It explains how grid systems provide a framework for arranging text, images, and other graphic elements on a page or screen. Müller-Brockmann emphasizes the grid's ability to bring order and consistency to designs, enabling efficient communication and visual clarity.

Figure 6.2 Importance of Grid System in Graphic Design | UX Collective

Figure 6.3 Grid Systems in Graphic Design – Katherine Small Gallery

Throughout the book, Müller-Brockmann examines various grid systems and their applications in different design contexts, including posters, brochures, magazines, and advertising. He showcases numerous real-world examples, providing visual demonstrations of how grids can be effectively employed to achieve balance, rhythm, and readability.

The book covers important aspects of grid design, such as establishing modular scales, determining column widths and gutters, and ensuring proper alignment and spacing. It also explores the relationship between grids and typography, emphasizing the role of grids in creating a cohesive visual hierarchy and typographic structure.

Müller-Brockmann's writing is accompanied by numerous diagrams, illustrations, and visual examples, making the book both informative and visually inspiring. The text is clear and concise, making it accessible to designers of all skill levels.

"Grid Systems in Graphic Design" is a valuable resource for designers who want to enhance their understanding and application of grid-based layouts. It offers practical insights and guidelines that can be applied to various design projects, helping designers achieve visually appealing and well-organized compositions.




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