Review Week 6

What is the pen tool used for?

The pen tool is used for creating organic shapes by creating a bunch of anchors. It can also be used for tracing objects in Adobe Illustrator.

How can you manipulate a path/line in Illustrator? Discuss the use of the white arrow tool, pen+, pen-, and convert too.

The pen + tool can be used to add an anchor to the line. The pen -tool is used to remove an anchor from the line. The white arrow tool allows one to use the anchors to change the path and line to change a path or line. The convert tool can be used to convert the anchor of a corner to that of a curve and vice versa.

How can you utilize the layers palette in Illustrator?

The layers palette can be used to trace objects. One layer can be used to hold the image you want to trace, and the other can be used for the actual tracing that you do.

How do you create a clipping mask in Adobe Illustrator?

First, create a rectangle with no fill and no line over the area over which the clipping mask has to be used. Then, make sure that it is brought to the front. Then use a selection box to select all of the objects that are to be clipped including the rectangle in front. Finally, go the Object menu, then to the Clipping Mask command, and then click on the 'Make' function.

Review Week 5

Shape:

In this design, the element of shape is utilized by surrounding the 'Om' signs with a circle. Creating a circle this way creates a sense of protection that can be given by the symbol 'Om'. It must also be considered that circles represent infinity as well. Putting the 'Om' signs in the shape of a circle and surrounding them with one also gives the feeling of the protective power lasting forever.











Line:

The poster is clearly highlighting the relations between Iran and the United States, which have clearly not been stable and are rapidly changing. Therefore, the diagonal lines in the side of this design clearly help the reader of the text feel this change and instability. This utilizes the fact that diagonal lines represent movement. In my opinion, the downward slope of the lines is particularly helpful in depicting the rough and worrying situation.













Texture:

This poster uses texture to emphasize the right side of President Obama's face. This gives the feeling that this picture Obama is not some random photo drawn in a picture book. The texture on the right side gives an impression of depth and also gives a bit power to the image of Obama. This sense of power (that is created by the texture) gives the feeling that Obama really is powerful and will bring progress to America.
















Space:

The negative space in this poster helps the reader relax his/her eyes and focus on only the hand holding the Coke bottle. By using a good deal of the positive space inside the circle to show the Coca-Cola, the audience of this advertisement is instantly attracted to the bottle. This way, a good focal point is set. Therefore, the use of a large amount of negative space keeps the audience focused on the Coca-Cola bottle and lets the audience take in the message about the drink that is being conveyed.












Value:

This poster of the latest Batman film utilizes black and other dark tones to convey a sense of doom and chaos. Using dark shades on the buildings makes it look like the city is in extreme danger. By contrast, the Batman symbol in the center is shown in white color. This use of light value is symbolizing Batman as the savior from all of this darkness. Therefore, the makers of this poster are clearly showing Batman to be a symbol for the triumph of good.

Review Week 4

Why/how can icons be used to communicate?

Icons can be used as an abstract way to convey ideas. Examples of such ideas include comedy, films, restrooms, food, and etc.

Via the internet, find 2 examples of common icons that clearly communicate their message. Post both in this entry.

What is the difference between copyright and public domain?

A work that is protected by copyright cannot be reused or copied by another person. On the other hand, a work that is public domain is not protected and can be used by anyone.

How can you avoid plagiarism in this class? In other classes?

In this class, plagiarism can be avoided by referring to the Internet as little as possible. More creativity can be used this way. In other classes, plagiarism can be avoided by citing sources that you used for an assignment. Also you can also avoid plagiarism by rephrasing information and putting it in your own words.

Review Week 3

1. What is OSHA? What do the letters stand for?

OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA sets workplace standards for safety and health for workers in any field or occupation.

2. How can graphic designers effectively communicate? In your own words, explain the communication process.

1. Figure out what has to be said and how it needs to be presented. (Research and think)
2. Establish how the visuals (text and images) are going to work together and how they will motivate the audience, buyer, etc. 
3. Make sure all the components are working together.

3. Understanding the history, culture and movements of fine and graphic arts will make you a better producer of visual messages. Why?

Gaining an understanding of art history will help in becoming a better producer of visual image because artworks of the past will provide inspiration for me. I can also learn the techniques which were successful in conveying messages earlier and utilize these methods in my own work.