URGH! i swear technology is against me or something. It took me a while making the video including an all nighter since I used aftereffects program. Not to mention, I'm a perfectionist when I'm in the zone editing the video since I want it to have a smooth transition. Unfortunately, there were several problems when I was done making it. Had to find out how to make the audio music from aftereffects, took a while to render it, tried to upload it to youtube. Uploading it to youtube had the most problem since the finished video was over the maximum upload (8.88 GB! forgot how big the video can be when finished). So had to find some way to compress it, ended up taking half an hour to do that.... THEN! uploading it to youtube cost 3 hours. OH but thats not the end, halfway through uploading, the internet cord got loose (don't have wireless internet connection). So had to start ALL OVER AGAIN!!! but by the time it'll be done, the video will be up past the class time. ARGH!!! Fortunately Jimmy accepted the video from the flash drive with points taking off for being late.WHEW so its good. But whats weird (and kinds messed up), youtube records the video as being uploaded on "December 06, 2010, 07:57 AM." Wait, what?! Ugh, and I thought uploading videos would be simple to do...-_-
Everyone did a great job in the video and apples projects, lots of varieties. Had fun on the last day. Gonna miss the people and the randomness though.
linkage:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AePflcBt29g
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Nov 24 - Homework Review
The majority of class time was spent discussing the homework of ideas to attract people to graphic design / visual communication. Most of the ideas were taking advantage of the potential students during the orientation tours and the booths near the student union. The ideas I liked was having a giant human-size book that shows examples of the graphic design field, playing around with the signs to show how graphic design influences it, bring you friend to class, and a mazelike wall that also showcases the student's work of graphic design. My ideas were simple as it is of having the orientation tour the first level of the fine arts building to see the gallery, and putting pamphlets inside the bags of the student orientation. Unfortunately, both of my ideas were shot down due to the management of the school. The first floor on the fine arts building only consists arts by high school, and it would not be fair to have pamphlets only of the art field in student orientation bags. Other ideas were also put down due to the school restrictions. Such as school websites hosting the art field and tour guides going into the buildings.
We were then supposed to watch a video, but the machine wasn't working. So Jimmy explained more about the finals. Then, we spent the remaining time doing the evaluations for the teachers. Ugh one more week of school, and I'm not ready...-_-
We were then supposed to watch a video, but the machine wasn't working. So Jimmy explained more about the finals. Then, we spent the remaining time doing the evaluations for the teachers. Ugh one more week of school, and I'm not ready...-_-
nov 22 - Discussion and Storytelling
We started the class with Jimmy mentioning "high" and "low" culture, and discussing on what it is since the phrase is not commonly used. It ended up with the class deciding on two different definition for the cultures. One was that "high" culture is what's trendy / popular, and "low"culture is what is not widespread. The other definition is that "high" culture is what is considered classy / social distinction, and "low" culture to be underground / trashy. Funny how "high" and "low" can have different meanings. Next, we discussed on - what is design? Since it was difficult to say the exact definition, we talked about graphic design and what are the elements of it. It was a pretty long discussion since graphic design had many components and covers many fields.
Next, we did a short activity in groups of two of making up a story based on random objects. A first for our class, so the story results were not that great. The stories were also short since we had very little time to plan and discuss the story (10 min). Unfortunately, everyone wasn't able to make a great story, so Jimmy was lenient on us. We were then assigned our homework of making good ideas that will attract potential and enrolled students to graphic design / visual communication at CSULA. This was because not many people know what graphic design / visual communication is. The goal is to inform and invite people to learn about the field and attend too. We spent the last half hour of class brainstorming ideas for the homework. Only thought of basics ideas, would be interesting to see everyone's results.
Next, we did a short activity in groups of two of making up a story based on random objects. A first for our class, so the story results were not that great. The stories were also short since we had very little time to plan and discuss the story (10 min). Unfortunately, everyone wasn't able to make a great story, so Jimmy was lenient on us. We were then assigned our homework of making good ideas that will attract potential and enrolled students to graphic design / visual communication at CSULA. This was because not many people know what graphic design / visual communication is. The goal is to inform and invite people to learn about the field and attend too. We spent the last half hour of class brainstorming ideas for the homework. Only thought of basics ideas, would be interesting to see everyone's results.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Nov 17 - Film and Final Project
In the beginning of class, we talked briefly about the different art museums to see here in LA. Since I'm from San Francisco, I have never been to one and only know very few of them. So it was very helpful listening to all the names of the art museum, too bad I didn't write them down. Ah well, at least I know that there's a lot here.We spent the class time watching a documentary called What are Dreams. It was actually between origami, dreams, and mayans, and the outcome was dreams by vote. Funny thing is the we started with an entertaining beginning since Chomsiri shrieked when the video introduction showed a praying mantis. Hope she will be able to get good sleep afterward. The video was definitely interesting since it explains about REM and non REM (resting eye motion) dreams, the different experiments involving dreams, what causes dreams, and the effects of dreams.
Here's some interesting information:
waking a person during REM dreams causes them to be negative due to the magdellum (sp?) in the brain, nonREM dreams helps improves memory, cats and dogs dreams of everyday activity,
REM dreams of human are a)replay of the past and to test out the possibilities in the future b) helps creativity and brain activity c) more lucid and fanciful,
nightmares are to help in preparing for dangerous situations (survival)
Jimmy then gave us a more detailed information of our final project. The final project is a 5 minute video of self-searching analysis on myself, my creative process and design of my creativity / ideas. There are no restriction on the video, so anything goes. Have to make sure to explore, evaluate, critique the content and concept before turning in final video. Need original title, explain the ideas represented, the approach to project, and the methodology used. Inspiration to help would be our reading book on design process, the activities we did in class, and imagine self as successful designer. Jimmy also wants the video to be posted on youtube and blog. Oh boy. Never did a video project before so this will be new. To help on the final project, we are to dream about them until next class (expand out creativity during sleep). So far, I dreamed of my mom, doughnuts, and the Little Rascals movie....huh? @_@ o-okay. Next class, we are to discuss the ideas and approaches that we made so far for the project. Ugh, can't really think that much on it now. XP
Here's some interesting information:
waking a person during REM dreams causes them to be negative due to the magdellum (sp?) in the brain, nonREM dreams helps improves memory, cats and dogs dreams of everyday activity,
REM dreams of human are a)replay of the past and to test out the possibilities in the future b) helps creativity and brain activity c) more lucid and fanciful,
nightmares are to help in preparing for dangerous situations (survival)
Jimmy then gave us a more detailed information of our final project. The final project is a 5 minute video of self-searching analysis on myself, my creative process and design of my creativity / ideas. There are no restriction on the video, so anything goes. Have to make sure to explore, evaluate, critique the content and concept before turning in final video. Need original title, explain the ideas represented, the approach to project, and the methodology used. Inspiration to help would be our reading book on design process, the activities we did in class, and imagine self as successful designer. Jimmy also wants the video to be posted on youtube and blog. Oh boy. Never did a video project before so this will be new. To help on the final project, we are to dream about them until next class (expand out creativity during sleep). So far, I dreamed of my mom, doughnuts, and the Little Rascals movie....huh? @_@ o-okay. Next class, we are to discuss the ideas and approaches that we made so far for the project. Ugh, can't really think that much on it now. XP
Nov 15 - Group Activity - Who? What?
I think we had the most fun in class that day. Everyone was to play a simple game with only the words "who" and what" in a circle with any 2 items. The 2 items used were a tube of paint and a board eraser. The sequence between two people is: this is a what (shows item), a what?, a what, oh a what (takes item). The person with the item then does the following sequence with the person next to them. This goes on until everyone in the circle does it. To make it more challenging, another object as "who" will be passed out on the opposite side simultaneous to the "what" object. The goal of the game is to complete the cycle of the circle by passing both objects around. Sounds simple, but is very difficult to do. Especially if some people giggle and break the pattern up (Guilty XP). Everybody had lots of fun playing this game, too bad we weren't able to accomplish it though. We were so close to doing it too! This game helped us to show how communication works in a group, by following the flow of the pattern / group and staying focus on task. Getting distracted (giggling in the game) loses focus and breaks the pattern up. This game is a great example of how a group works. Although, the sounds of "who" and "what" kept me thinking of Dr Seuss and music. xp
Afterward, we relaxed and let our mind wander to creativity as opposed to the mind focusing during the game. Jimmy read us a narrative introduction of us leaving our home, entering through the forest and into a cave, a passageway full of doors, finding a door with our name on it, and opening the door. We were then to draw what is beyond the door. But since the door had my name on it, I believe that beyond would be a reflection of me. So I drew the things I would like to have in my room with the basic room layout of rug, desk, light, window, bookshelf, closet, and little nick-knacks. For the fairytale and fanciful effect, I added weapons and dragon design on the wall, fancy rug and light, and a baby dragon resting. If there were no doors or no personal name or just a cave, I would probably imagine a different world. Everybody else were also creative in what they imagined beyond the door. It's good that we did a very relaxing activity after the game, let us explore our creativity.
Afterward, we relaxed and let our mind wander to creativity as opposed to the mind focusing during the game. Jimmy read us a narrative introduction of us leaving our home, entering through the forest and into a cave, a passageway full of doors, finding a door with our name on it, and opening the door. We were then to draw what is beyond the door. But since the door had my name on it, I believe that beyond would be a reflection of me. So I drew the things I would like to have in my room with the basic room layout of rug, desk, light, window, bookshelf, closet, and little nick-knacks. For the fairytale and fanciful effect, I added weapons and dragon design on the wall, fancy rug and light, and a baby dragon resting. If there were no doors or no personal name or just a cave, I would probably imagine a different world. Everybody else were also creative in what they imagined beyond the door. It's good that we did a very relaxing activity after the game, let us explore our creativity.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Reading - Stage 6 - Communication p 141-168
Chapter 6 explains communication during the presentation process. Basically, when presenting the final stage of the design/idea. Communication has 3 phases: encoding, the message itself, and decoding of the audiences. The designers focus is on how the audience view the message, so it's important to communicate to the clients to focus on what they need than what they want. Reactions from the audience may be different than what the clients may want. However, there are several other factors to consider for communication: the clients, corporations, manufacturing, and associates. All of them have different needs and methods, so it's difficult, but very important, to communicate/ understand/ discuss with them in order to have all the demands met. Lots of group activity involved, so I guess I gotta work on debating people if I have to. ack.
During presentation, there are 4 levels of information needed: statement, concept, detail, and planning. Statement is the basic info of who, what, where, and why; almost like the creative briefs. Concept is the development of the idea. Detail is forming the idea into a visual image or model. Planning is what the design will do in the future. So during the presentation, we have to communicate how 4 levels were formed from start to finish. Some of the presentation methods are: illustration (pencils, markers, etc), computer programs (photoshop, flash), and models. It's very useful to have skills in several presentation methods, gives diversity. Gotta work on that since I have the stuff, but don't really bother to practice on them -_-.
A good way to give a presentation is to be a actor on stage - know the lines, use props (the materials), have emotions and tones, and be motivated. By being a good actor, you get the message across to the people and leave an impression. Being confident during the presentation would then communicate to the group that the idea/concept is a good one. This reminds me of when we did the body gesture activity of 2 lies and 1 truth. Really nervous up front, so it's gonna take some work for me to be a good presenter. Would help if I practiced and "know the lines" and be emotional. Man, I gotta work on everything based on this chapter! XD
During presentation, there are 4 levels of information needed: statement, concept, detail, and planning. Statement is the basic info of who, what, where, and why; almost like the creative briefs. Concept is the development of the idea. Detail is forming the idea into a visual image or model. Planning is what the design will do in the future. So during the presentation, we have to communicate how 4 levels were formed from start to finish. Some of the presentation methods are: illustration (pencils, markers, etc), computer programs (photoshop, flash), and models. It's very useful to have skills in several presentation methods, gives diversity. Gotta work on that since I have the stuff, but don't really bother to practice on them -_-.
A good way to give a presentation is to be a actor on stage - know the lines, use props (the materials), have emotions and tones, and be motivated. By being a good actor, you get the message across to the people and leave an impression. Being confident during the presentation would then communicate to the group that the idea/concept is a good one. This reminds me of when we did the body gesture activity of 2 lies and 1 truth. Really nervous up front, so it's gonna take some work for me to be a good presenter. Would help if I practiced and "know the lines" and be emotional. Man, I gotta work on everything based on this chapter! XD
Nov 10 - Focusing Exercise
By the time I came in class, everybody were discussing binary numbers. Apparently Jimmy noticed the date 11-10-10. On the board were the decimal numbers and binary numbers:
0 0 4 100
1 1 5 101
2 10 6 110
3 11 7 111
Everybody then had to discuss what would be the nest numbers 8-10 based on the previous numbers while Jimmy left for a brief moment. I personally looked to see if there were any patterns.There were repetitive numbers between 0-3 and 4-7 with the numbers ending in 0-1-0-1 etc. The following numbers would also have another digit based on the change between 3 and 4. Everybody also noticed and agreed on both facts. But that was the only thing everyone agreed on since we couldn't tell if either 0 or 1 would be added to 8. By the time Jimmy came back, everyone said they were in agreement of the number: 1000, 1011, 1100. But when asked to each individual, not everyone agreed to the solution. The group was split in half with that pattern, and other half for a different pattern.
The activity was to show the different languages involved in a group and how it can be like if between the clients and designers. Most people hire designers when they themselves don't understand design, so the designers need to explain to them in the client's language instead of their own in order to help them understand the concept. Since design is way to communicate visually, we also need to understand how the explain verbally. Hence the language issue. Also different methodologies are needed to be used in group to explore different ways and ideas until everyone are convinced of the solution. "Meaning" of a word is a way to understand and has something attached to it. "Representation" is re-translation and communications of the idea (ex poster).
Jimmy then went over the book Graphic Design Now by Taschen that is full of design images. Then, we did the rest of the group regarding homework from last class: 10 images and 1 heading with different meanings/moods. Homework: None!
0 0 4 100
1 1 5 101
2 10 6 110
3 11 7 111
Everybody then had to discuss what would be the nest numbers 8-10 based on the previous numbers while Jimmy left for a brief moment. I personally looked to see if there were any patterns.There were repetitive numbers between 0-3 and 4-7 with the numbers ending in 0-1-0-1 etc. The following numbers would also have another digit based on the change between 3 and 4. Everybody also noticed and agreed on both facts. But that was the only thing everyone agreed on since we couldn't tell if either 0 or 1 would be added to 8. By the time Jimmy came back, everyone said they were in agreement of the number: 1000, 1011, 1100. But when asked to each individual, not everyone agreed to the solution. The group was split in half with that pattern, and other half for a different pattern.
The activity was to show the different languages involved in a group and how it can be like if between the clients and designers. Most people hire designers when they themselves don't understand design, so the designers need to explain to them in the client's language instead of their own in order to help them understand the concept. Since design is way to communicate visually, we also need to understand how the explain verbally. Hence the language issue. Also different methodologies are needed to be used in group to explore different ways and ideas until everyone are convinced of the solution. "Meaning" of a word is a way to understand and has something attached to it. "Representation" is re-translation and communications of the idea (ex poster).
Jimmy then went over the book Graphic Design Now by Taschen that is full of design images. Then, we did the rest of the group regarding homework from last class: 10 images and 1 heading with different meanings/moods. Homework: None!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Nov 8 - Discussion - Creative Briefs
We started class with discussing about the GAUGE speaker event regarding Ismael Obregon. Most of us attended the event and we gave a brief explanation to the ones who didn't. The name of his design company, "Oishii" was first discussed since Obregon pointed out that word/name was important. I didn't realize that the name could have been a combination of his name - O in Obregon and "ish" from his nickname. He didn't point that out, but only explained that he chose that name for the meaning "delicious" in Japanese. We also pointed out that he mentioned we should have 2 languages: spoken and visual language. Visual language contains: connection of the idea, expression of the of the idea and communication for it. The process is the translate it from words/message, interpret, synthesize it, and express the idea. In order words, make sense of the idea and get to to have different meanings. Examples would be symbols on the signs and the red hand symbols on the crosswalk for no walking.
Then, Jimmy briefly went over our homework of the creative briefs for the video: The Power of Ten. I really messed up the homework badly: fortunately, everyone got full points for it as we really did not go over it enough *whew*. So, the next discussion was about what creative briefs really are. There are 4 different types of creative briefs: outline approach, paragraph approach, complete sentences approach, and casual approach. The creative briefs are almost like a contract between a client and designers with information regarding the design between them. It's also a translation of what the clients wants for their design, so lots of adjectives, feelings, and action words were used. Jimmy read out several examples of creative briefs from unknown companies to give us a clearer idea of what they are. Creative briefs are more complex than I thought as it seemed like a report to me. Then again, it's been a while since I did one so that could be it too.
I think that we then went over our missed homework of 1 meaning with 10 images that shifts the mood or meaning. Uh....let's just say I did badly on that too and I definitely need improvement. Think cause I didn't put too much thought on my homework. Gotta work on that... Some people still had it, others didn't. So next class, the rest that didn't go that day will have to for next class. And we get no homework! ^_^
Then, Jimmy briefly went over our homework of the creative briefs for the video: The Power of Ten. I really messed up the homework badly: fortunately, everyone got full points for it as we really did not go over it enough *whew*. So, the next discussion was about what creative briefs really are. There are 4 different types of creative briefs: outline approach, paragraph approach, complete sentences approach, and casual approach. The creative briefs are almost like a contract between a client and designers with information regarding the design between them. It's also a translation of what the clients wants for their design, so lots of adjectives, feelings, and action words were used. Jimmy read out several examples of creative briefs from unknown companies to give us a clearer idea of what they are. Creative briefs are more complex than I thought as it seemed like a report to me. Then again, it's been a while since I did one so that could be it too.
I think that we then went over our missed homework of 1 meaning with 10 images that shifts the mood or meaning. Uh....let's just say I did badly on that too and I definitely need improvement. Think cause I didn't put too much thought on my homework. Gotta work on that... Some people still had it, others didn't. So next class, the rest that didn't go that day will have to for next class. And we get no homework! ^_^
Monday, November 8, 2010
GAUGE Speaker - Ismael Obregan
On Thursday, I attended to the see the GAUGE guest speaker, Ismael Obregan (creator of Oishii Creative http://www.oishiicreative.com/ - design company). This was a first time for me attending an event with a guest speaker who is in the career of my major (graphic design) and with high credibility. "Oishii" means 'delicious" in Japanese, which was cute since their logo was a sushi piece. It was not obvious since the logo was three colored oval as sushi, but it was still ingenious. The company do various design work for a lot of high profile clients, such as EA games, NBA, NFL, Disney, etc. Ismael was entertaining and had a sense of humor, even making fun of himself. I had fun at the event as I learned a lot from him about the design world.
The main point of Ismael's presentation was words / language. Words are the most powerful tools for designers, especially when using it for visual languages (illustration). The challenge is to use words in an innovative way that is not so obvious. His example was the name - Oishii creative, as the company name instead of the obvious last name. Cute and smart idea as it's something unexpected. The visual languages are a way to communicate messages to the audience. A short video Words was shown that have short clips that connects to each other through transitions by movement, action, and words. For example, someone falling off building to plate breaking; and kid sniffling to wet painted on wall. Hardly any words were spoken, and the various mini video clips were connected to one another in a not so obvious way. That was an interesting video since it was unpredictable for what would show up next. Kinda wanted to see more afterwords.
Ismael then had a Q and A session for everyone in the music hall. He gave out a lot of useful information and advise in this section, especially for the anticipated graduating design students. Since Oishii Creative was his own design company, his advice for starting one is to learn lots of rules for how things are done. Really doubtful that I would do something like that, but something to keep in mind. He pointed out that as designers, we need to listen to the clients when discussing the design, and not imagine doing them as what we want but what they need. Since it's the designers' responsibility to translate the message of the client into the visual image.The other advice that I find useful was concerning networking, go to other events with guest speakers and meet people there to have connections. He was also really helpful concerning interviews as he is a company owner. His advice on portfolio is to have diversity with different styles, and to be open-minded. Really great advices that will definitely be helpful in the future.
The main point of Ismael's presentation was words / language. Words are the most powerful tools for designers, especially when using it for visual languages (illustration). The challenge is to use words in an innovative way that is not so obvious. His example was the name - Oishii creative, as the company name instead of the obvious last name. Cute and smart idea as it's something unexpected. The visual languages are a way to communicate messages to the audience. A short video Words was shown that have short clips that connects to each other through transitions by movement, action, and words. For example, someone falling off building to plate breaking; and kid sniffling to wet painted on wall. Hardly any words were spoken, and the various mini video clips were connected to one another in a not so obvious way. That was an interesting video since it was unpredictable for what would show up next. Kinda wanted to see more afterwords.
Ismael then had a Q and A session for everyone in the music hall. He gave out a lot of useful information and advise in this section, especially for the anticipated graduating design students. Since Oishii Creative was his own design company, his advice for starting one is to learn lots of rules for how things are done. Really doubtful that I would do something like that, but something to keep in mind. He pointed out that as designers, we need to listen to the clients when discussing the design, and not imagine doing them as what we want but what they need. Since it's the designers' responsibility to translate the message of the client into the visual image.The other advice that I find useful was concerning networking, go to other events with guest speakers and meet people there to have connections. He was also really helpful concerning interviews as he is a company owner. His advice on portfolio is to have diversity with different styles, and to be open-minded. Really great advices that will definitely be helpful in the future.
Nov 3 - Sins Homework Review and Video
The class went over the homework of having 10 images for one of the deadly sins: lust, wrath, pride, sloth, greed, gluttony, and envy. I was warned about my images since I tore most of it from magazines with bad tears, showing that I'm "lazy." So something for future reference. My images were for Greed, so it have people in high position and having items since I went with the Christian definition: excessive desire and pursuit of wealth, status, and power. Most of the 10 images set were confusing as it was difficult to pinpoint which one of the deadly sins were being portrayed, especially since pride and greed were similar. We spent a lot of time going over each one individually. Then Jimmy went off on a side topic of Gustavo Dudamel, presentation of app used for him, and time as nonlinear. (All because one of my image have Gustavo in it ;P.) He also discussed the rubric checklist for the program exit learning outcome. The checklist helps the school to know if the students are getting enough education based on outsiders' views.
Then, we saw a short video called "Powers of Ten" by Office of Charles and Ray Eames.The first half of the video shows a view that for every 10 seconds, 100 meters will zoom out from the original pinpoint of a man on a picnic in Chicago all the way out to the view of the galaxies to be like stars. The zooming sequence then reverts (zooms in) for every 2 seconds to the close up view of the hand of the man, and goes even farther as seeing the protons and neutrons in the nucleus, and even further as seeing electrons as static with the 10 (-16) power magnification. This was definitely an interesting video as I've never seen a video zooming in and out of one focal point, especially of a high magnitude of 10 to the 16th powers in meters. Normally you would only see one illustration of one view in textbooks, not a whole pan out. For homework, we are to make a creative briefs for the video. The creative briefs are the basic information of the who, what, why, etc of the project/design.
Then, we saw a short video called "Powers of Ten" by Office of Charles and Ray Eames.The first half of the video shows a view that for every 10 seconds, 100 meters will zoom out from the original pinpoint of a man on a picnic in Chicago all the way out to the view of the galaxies to be like stars. The zooming sequence then reverts (zooms in) for every 2 seconds to the close up view of the hand of the man, and goes even farther as seeing the protons and neutrons in the nucleus, and even further as seeing electrons as static with the 10 (-16) power magnification. This was definitely an interesting video as I've never seen a video zooming in and out of one focal point, especially of a high magnitude of 10 to the 16th powers in meters. Normally you would only see one illustration of one view in textbooks, not a whole pan out. For homework, we are to make a creative briefs for the video. The creative briefs are the basic information of the who, what, why, etc of the project/design.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Nov 1 - Methodology + Video
For class, we started with a discussion of what methodology is. Immediately with the word -ology, I thought the definition of methodology as "the study of methods." As with all cases of defining a word in the class , we broke the word down to have a clear understanding of the definition. So we first looked at other words that have "-ology" and the definition of it (ex. mythology, psychology, biology, etc.). "-ology" is a "body, a set of beliefs, or a specific group within." Then we looked at the word "method" as "ways of doing things, procedures, techniques", completing the definition of the methodology as study of methods / procedures - series of actions in series of orders to get consistent result. As designers, we have to use different methods in the design approach for producing our designs (brainstorm, sketch, etc). If the result is not what we wanted nor successful, then a different method would need to be used, since the design have to be smart, beautiful, relevant, appropriate, and fun to make.
Next, we watched a short film by Saul Bass called Why Man Creates. The video was very humorous and entertaining while showing the series of process of exploration of creativity. The introduction of the video had a cute animation that shows a quick history in time, kinda reminded me a school house rocks style. The series of process of creativity were the following:
1. edifice (def- An elaborate conceptual structure)
2. fooling around: sometimes idea start that way
3. the process (building blocks and not giving up)
4. the judgment (criticism / positive / negative)
5. a parable (def: A simple story illustrating a moral lesson)
6. A Digression (losing thought or focus of idea)
7. the search: work in progress on new ideas
Throughout the video, few words were surprisingly spoken as the rules were written down and visual clips were used in examples for each point. The video was entertaining and education, and I liked it very much.
The class then did a quick overview look everyone's homework of doing sketches of 10 original games. For my own share, I honestly have maybe 4-5 that I put some thoughts into it and the rest were just random ideas. My sketches mainly have rules/explanations and stick figures for illustrations. It was interesting to see what the other people thought of, there were a mix of creativity, uniqueness, simplicity and repetitiveness. For the judgment, everyone had to choose the best original games of each individual for only 20 min. Not enough for everybody to explain their 10 games. In the end, the best games chosen for the voting poll were Tumble-Topple (balancing marbles on unstable levels), Pandemonium ( combination of charades and maze), Who Took the Cookies? ( not being the last one to have the cookie card with maze). The winner was Cee with Pandemonium, I guess since charades is a classic game and simple. It was still a fun and challenging activity, just wished we have more time to go over all the games...
Our next homework is to have 10 images for one of the deadly sins: lust, wrath, pride, sloth, greed, gluttony, and envy. Similar to our previous homework of 10 images for one message, so it have to be indirect.
Next, we watched a short film by Saul Bass called Why Man Creates. The video was very humorous and entertaining while showing the series of process of exploration of creativity. The introduction of the video had a cute animation that shows a quick history in time, kinda reminded me a school house rocks style. The series of process of creativity were the following:
1. edifice (def- An elaborate conceptual structure)
2. fooling around: sometimes idea start that way
3. the process (building blocks and not giving up)
4. the judgment (criticism / positive / negative)
5. a parable (def: A simple story illustrating a moral lesson)
6. A Digression (losing thought or focus of idea)
7. the search: work in progress on new ideas
Throughout the video, few words were surprisingly spoken as the rules were written down and visual clips were used in examples for each point. The video was entertaining and education, and I liked it very much.
The class then did a quick overview look everyone's homework of doing sketches of 10 original games. For my own share, I honestly have maybe 4-5 that I put some thoughts into it and the rest were just random ideas. My sketches mainly have rules/explanations and stick figures for illustrations. It was interesting to see what the other people thought of, there were a mix of creativity, uniqueness, simplicity and repetitiveness. For the judgment, everyone had to choose the best original games of each individual for only 20 min. Not enough for everybody to explain their 10 games. In the end, the best games chosen for the voting poll were Tumble-Topple (balancing marbles on unstable levels), Pandemonium ( combination of charades and maze), Who Took the Cookies? ( not being the last one to have the cookie card with maze). The winner was Cee with Pandemonium, I guess since charades is a classic game and simple. It was still a fun and challenging activity, just wished we have more time to go over all the games...
Our next homework is to have 10 images for one of the deadly sins: lust, wrath, pride, sloth, greed, gluttony, and envy. Similar to our previous homework of 10 images for one message, so it have to be indirect.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Reading 6: Stage 4 - Exploration/Refinement 97-116 (19 p)
Okay I know I'm way way behind on the reading assignment. Been busy with other assignments from other classes. So hopefully after this, I can continue with the reading section. -_- Gotta do this since it's worth a lot of points.
This chapter explains how to explore and refine concepts through different methods.The most basic way is to brainstorm some ideas of the concept, then do some sketches for visualization. By sketching out the ideas, designers will have a clearer understanding and help to explain the concept to other people such as clients. Sketching then becomes a dialogue to self or visual language. As proof, when we were children, drawings were used in education, to communicate with others, and to relate them with real version (book ex. elephant and scribble of elephant). As we grow older, the drawings/sketching developed further become more similar to reality and subjective to criticism. This is not best for designers as drawings are used as a communication of visual, emotion, and sense of "real." Even if the drawings are not "real" they still have a place in the design world as a visual presentation and play with people's imagination.
The book mentions the DO'S of sketches, here's some: sketch quickly and repeatedly, constantly, large and small, and use different medias. The DON'TS of sketches are to edit yourself (don't critique) and keep to self. There are other ways besides sketching to form a visual representation of an idea: 3d form and computer design. When done with sketching, it doesn't hurt to ask for other people's opinions to make new ideas just don't take too seriously. To need more inspirations for ideas, take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and take a break.
This was a really interesting chapter for me. I usually have all these different ideas in my head but I hardly sketch them. I definitely should sketch more often and follow the DO's. Another thing that was interesting to me was about us doing drawings when we were young and how vital it became for us in the future. Never really though about it in that way of communicating to others and to relating it to reality. Also helps to not take other people's opinion seriously. Maybe that's why I don't usually draw; worried of other's opinion *shrug*. This chapter definitely helps for the current homework of making 10 original games through sketches. Also gotta work on that right now. Next class will be interesting, wonder what interesting games will come up!
This chapter explains how to explore and refine concepts through different methods.The most basic way is to brainstorm some ideas of the concept, then do some sketches for visualization. By sketching out the ideas, designers will have a clearer understanding and help to explain the concept to other people such as clients. Sketching then becomes a dialogue to self or visual language. As proof, when we were children, drawings were used in education, to communicate with others, and to relate them with real version (book ex. elephant and scribble of elephant). As we grow older, the drawings/sketching developed further become more similar to reality and subjective to criticism. This is not best for designers as drawings are used as a communication of visual, emotion, and sense of "real." Even if the drawings are not "real" they still have a place in the design world as a visual presentation and play with people's imagination.
The book mentions the DO'S of sketches, here's some: sketch quickly and repeatedly, constantly, large and small, and use different medias. The DON'TS of sketches are to edit yourself (don't critique) and keep to self. There are other ways besides sketching to form a visual representation of an idea: 3d form and computer design. When done with sketching, it doesn't hurt to ask for other people's opinions to make new ideas just don't take too seriously. To need more inspirations for ideas, take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and take a break.
This was a really interesting chapter for me. I usually have all these different ideas in my head but I hardly sketch them. I definitely should sketch more often and follow the DO's. Another thing that was interesting to me was about us doing drawings when we were young and how vital it became for us in the future. Never really though about it in that way of communicating to others and to relating it to reality. Also helps to not take other people's opinion seriously. Maybe that's why I don't usually draw; worried of other's opinion *shrug*. This chapter definitely helps for the current homework of making 10 original games through sketches. Also gotta work on that right now. Next class will be interesting, wonder what interesting games will come up!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Oct 27 - Game Day
ugh came in late again. Anywayz we were gonna play board games during the whole class time. FUN! I brought 3 games: Scrabble, Life, Monopoly, all thanx to my aunt and two cousins. My classmates ended up playing with Life and Monopoly since someone bought another Scrabble game. The first game I played was Clue, a mystery solving where you eliminate the odds of who the killer is, where, and what weapon. It was my first time actually completing the game. The game was updated to make it more challenging with cards and more rooms. For some reason, I kept getting the dice with questions marks on it, making me kept getting the cards. That was fun and entertaining. The game was a mental thinking game of eliminating the possibilities and getting the final conclusion of who the killer is, where and what weapon. Fun game, but probably not for people who want to be active and energetic. At least I understand how the game works.
The next game that I chose was one of the games that I brought: Life. At home (SF), I have another Life game that's an older edition. So I had to read some of the new rules and be the banker. The Life game that we played was different than the one I'm familiar with as it has more rules, different amount in Life tiles, panels with new directions, and more cards. So some of them I didn't realize until a bit late, but we kept going and had fun. We had such a blast as kids were getting added, stealing each others salary card, and taking money from each other and the banker (such a challenge to play and being giving out payday money every turn). Each turn had something unexpected to occur, keeping us in suspense and excited throughout the game. The most entertaining that was that I became known as the crooked cop and Edwing kept getting children (then ended up in the river @_@ lol). Life definitely became everyone's favorite, including Monopoly from the noises heard. I'm so glad that my games had everyone having fun.
The point of us playing board games is to help us for our next homework of sketching up 10 original games. They must have: story, characters, themes, icons, conflict, risk and rewards. What an interesting assignment! Right now can think of only 3, so hopefully some inspiration will help me to complete all 10. And HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! XD
The next game that I chose was one of the games that I brought: Life. At home (SF), I have another Life game that's an older edition. So I had to read some of the new rules and be the banker. The Life game that we played was different than the one I'm familiar with as it has more rules, different amount in Life tiles, panels with new directions, and more cards. So some of them I didn't realize until a bit late, but we kept going and had fun. We had such a blast as kids were getting added, stealing each others salary card, and taking money from each other and the banker (such a challenge to play and being giving out payday money every turn). Each turn had something unexpected to occur, keeping us in suspense and excited throughout the game. The most entertaining that was that I became known as the crooked cop and Edwing kept getting children (then ended up in the river @_@ lol). Life definitely became everyone's favorite, including Monopoly from the noises heard. I'm so glad that my games had everyone having fun.
The point of us playing board games is to help us for our next homework of sketching up 10 original games. They must have: story, characters, themes, icons, conflict, risk and rewards. What an interesting assignment! Right now can think of only 3, so hopefully some inspiration will help me to complete all 10. And HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! XD
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
OCT 25 - iterative and films
On Monday, everyone in class was really out of it and was very unresponsive. Personally, I did an all nighter and had only 2-3 hours of sleep because of my trip to and from San Francisco. I guess we all were too tired from midterm. Also would have helped if Chomsiri was in class since she's always full of energy. Guess she had to work on the paint project since I saw her in the next class. Good thing that Jimmy was not that strict on us for our half-dead attitude ^_^.
Jimmy gave us the option of which to do first: discussion or videos. We all chose videos, but somehow we did discussion first. Probably because he was into it and we were all tired to point it out until he realized it himself lol. First he started the discussion that we can not say "don't know" as we designers are critical thinkers / problem solvers. We should be able to figure out the problem or explore ways to solve them. So the word "iterative" was introduced to us with the definition of " repetitive actions to have better goals or until successful." As designers the iterative process occurs when revising and evaluating our sketches/designs over and over until it's completed/perfected/approved. Then, Jimmy discusses the experiences of working with clients. Even though the clients are hiring designers (us), the main focus is the audience. Jimmy recommends to create 3 good designs with no personal favoritism among them. Because if the clients chooses one of the non-favorite one, it would be difficult to be active on it and improve the design. There should also be a rationale-based explanation of the strengths and weaknesses for each designs. Designs are not finalized the first time as the clients will give feedbacks/criterion to the designers until they approve.
I can understand the clients and designers relationship since I have had similar experience this last summer. I had an internship with The Rare Orchid as a designing patterns for their merchandises of clip magnets. My contact with the owner was by email. Meredith, the owner, told me what needed to be improved for each of my designs including color variations. It was a fun experience for me, even have one of designs to be finalized in production!!! Still psyche about it! ^_^
Back to class, there was 2 TED videos to watch. The first was of John Maeda, MIT designer and author of The Love of Simplicity. He was really entertaining and lively. The point was that simplicity is seen everywhere, even when he was taking vacation. Some of the concepts he did as a designers were simple ( drawing with cheetos, mass group of french fries, fries into butterflies = butterfries). Most of his art designs were complex pattens with many geometric shapes and mesmerizing effect. Some of his complex projects were a color patten for makeup company and flash calendars as numbers as leaves falling. Then he pointed out that simple may be good, but sometimes not ideal. Such as if the sky was always the same then there would be no sunset. He believes that simplicity is catching up to complexity, since everyone wants things to be easy/simple. His definition of simplicity is to be living in life and enjoy more. He also have 3 phases of looking at things - observation, analysis and interpretation, exploration through creation. After watching, I started to appreciate how powerful simple concepts can be to designers.
The next video was of Scott McCloud, a cartoonist. His video was very fast paced with quick visual imagery, like comic book style, but he was still very engaging and humorous. His view of vision is different from Maeda's as it follows his dad's blindness. Scott did a quick history background of himself as his dad being blind, originally can see, works in science as military engineer, his siblings follow dad's path, and himself having a drive of being a cartoonist. His ideas of the different types of vision are: on what can't see, already proven, and what can be but unproven. This can be seen in science, personal endeavors, designers, and politics, just have to watch for pattens. His view on comics is that it's a visual medium that embraces everything, including the 5 senses. He points out the sense of time in comics when the scenes change.Comics follow the spacial line to have the flow of being continuous. He then showed the different possibilities of comics on screen as an infinite canvas to adapt to the environment. Unfortunately if it had visual affects of moving pictures, it wouldn't really be comics anymore. After watching the video, it gave me a new perspective on comics and visual images. Especially since Jimmy says our final project was a 5 minute video of us individuals. Eep! I'm not the person behind the lens and never used a camera. Wonder if I can use my old camera phone so I can edit. Hhhmmmm. Can't really do anything though since he was very vague.
On Wednesday, we have game day; all day of playing boardgames. This is to help us for storytelling development. Already have an idea of a game from watching Criminal Mind. ^_^ Can't wait for class, it will be fun!
Jimmy gave us the option of which to do first: discussion or videos. We all chose videos, but somehow we did discussion first. Probably because he was into it and we were all tired to point it out until he realized it himself lol. First he started the discussion that we can not say "don't know" as we designers are critical thinkers / problem solvers. We should be able to figure out the problem or explore ways to solve them. So the word "iterative" was introduced to us with the definition of " repetitive actions to have better goals or until successful." As designers the iterative process occurs when revising and evaluating our sketches/designs over and over until it's completed/perfected/approved. Then, Jimmy discusses the experiences of working with clients. Even though the clients are hiring designers (us), the main focus is the audience. Jimmy recommends to create 3 good designs with no personal favoritism among them. Because if the clients chooses one of the non-favorite one, it would be difficult to be active on it and improve the design. There should also be a rationale-based explanation of the strengths and weaknesses for each designs. Designs are not finalized the first time as the clients will give feedbacks/criterion to the designers until they approve.
I can understand the clients and designers relationship since I have had similar experience this last summer. I had an internship with The Rare Orchid as a designing patterns for their merchandises of clip magnets. My contact with the owner was by email. Meredith, the owner, told me what needed to be improved for each of my designs including color variations. It was a fun experience for me, even have one of designs to be finalized in production!!! Still psyche about it! ^_^
 |
| MY original design in production!!! |
The next video was of Scott McCloud, a cartoonist. His video was very fast paced with quick visual imagery, like comic book style, but he was still very engaging and humorous. His view of vision is different from Maeda's as it follows his dad's blindness. Scott did a quick history background of himself as his dad being blind, originally can see, works in science as military engineer, his siblings follow dad's path, and himself having a drive of being a cartoonist. His ideas of the different types of vision are: on what can't see, already proven, and what can be but unproven. This can be seen in science, personal endeavors, designers, and politics, just have to watch for pattens. His view on comics is that it's a visual medium that embraces everything, including the 5 senses. He points out the sense of time in comics when the scenes change.Comics follow the spacial line to have the flow of being continuous. He then showed the different possibilities of comics on screen as an infinite canvas to adapt to the environment. Unfortunately if it had visual affects of moving pictures, it wouldn't really be comics anymore. After watching the video, it gave me a new perspective on comics and visual images. Especially since Jimmy says our final project was a 5 minute video of us individuals. Eep! I'm not the person behind the lens and never used a camera. Wonder if I can use my old camera phone so I can edit. Hhhmmmm. Can't really do anything though since he was very vague.
On Wednesday, we have game day; all day of playing boardgames. This is to help us for storytelling development. Already have an idea of a game from watching Criminal Mind. ^_^ Can't wait for class, it will be fun!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Oct 20 - Body Gestures
Reporting from San Francisco!!! Had a long day full of wedding ceremony and banquet. But the ending was entertaining since half the people were watching the giants game. Could hear them cheer now and then, and a big "hooray" when they won. lol ^_^
For class, everyone sat in a circle again and had a discussion on body language. It's very important as it helps to communicate and connect with the audience in presentations. Body language can be a physical representation of what emotion the speaker is feeling in front of the audience. They can show signs of being nervous or confident based on the body gestures. This is vitally important to us design students as we want to connect with the audience by showing our confidence and ease by our body language. When we speak, our tone and volume also affects the body language. Other parts than can play a factor in body language are: clothes, acting, improv, movement, and eye contact. The most common signs of nervousness in body language are: body shifting, not maintaining eye contact with the audience, and small movement in arms, hands, or feet.
Then we had a fun activity of each person had to present themselves with 2 truths and one lie, and the audience decides which one is the lie through body language. It was a long time that I had to go up in front of class so I was obviously nervous. I jumped right in, spoke really fast that the audience couldn't hear the three choices, and forced myself to stay still instead of being comfortable/casual. Everyone saw that, so I really really need to work on my body language and presentations. Guess I'm also used to practicing before presenting, not being taken by surprise of representing. I believe we are going to do more presentations for future class to help us in that area, since other people had similar problems of being nervous "on stage." To be honest, I guessed the lies based on mainly the facts than the body language. Analyzing the options helps me to narrow it down to one truth. Also, I couldn't really see the body language clearly since I was sitting on the side and was unable to see the face or eyes clearly. So overall, I was looking at the whole body and listening to the people's presentation. Guess this is from listening to class lectures.
Last, I believe, we went over the same homework of having 10 different phrases/meaning to a new image. My image was a cute baby in a white bag being flown in the sky by a stork. I thought I did good, but I guess some of my choices were still too literal. After class ended, I kept thinking about it and I was able to make up more new inventive ones for it. The funny thing is, that ad was actually for drugs. @_@
For class, everyone sat in a circle again and had a discussion on body language. It's very important as it helps to communicate and connect with the audience in presentations. Body language can be a physical representation of what emotion the speaker is feeling in front of the audience. They can show signs of being nervous or confident based on the body gestures. This is vitally important to us design students as we want to connect with the audience by showing our confidence and ease by our body language. When we speak, our tone and volume also affects the body language. Other parts than can play a factor in body language are: clothes, acting, improv, movement, and eye contact. The most common signs of nervousness in body language are: body shifting, not maintaining eye contact with the audience, and small movement in arms, hands, or feet.
Then we had a fun activity of each person had to present themselves with 2 truths and one lie, and the audience decides which one is the lie through body language. It was a long time that I had to go up in front of class so I was obviously nervous. I jumped right in, spoke really fast that the audience couldn't hear the three choices, and forced myself to stay still instead of being comfortable/casual. Everyone saw that, so I really really need to work on my body language and presentations. Guess I'm also used to practicing before presenting, not being taken by surprise of representing. I believe we are going to do more presentations for future class to help us in that area, since other people had similar problems of being nervous "on stage." To be honest, I guessed the lies based on mainly the facts than the body language. Analyzing the options helps me to narrow it down to one truth. Also, I couldn't really see the body language clearly since I was sitting on the side and was unable to see the face or eyes clearly. So overall, I was looking at the whole body and listening to the people's presentation. Guess this is from listening to class lectures.
Last, I believe, we went over the same homework of having 10 different phrases/meaning to a new image. My image was a cute baby in a white bag being flown in the sky by a stork. I thought I did good, but I guess some of my choices were still too literal. After class ended, I kept thinking about it and I was able to make up more new inventive ones for it. The funny thing is, that ad was actually for drugs. @_@
Friday, October 22, 2010
Oct 18 - Mood and Style Boards
For class, everyone sat in a circle for discussion and lecture. We began by looking at the contents and advertisement of the book, Becoming a Graphic Designer 4th edition, and 2 magazines, CMYK and Creative & Quarterly. Jimmy highly recommended the book for graphic design students as it contains helpful information such as portfolio requirements and interviews. Then again, he got the book for free since he's a teacher -_-.... Ah well, if I need it badly I'll buy it online for maybe an older edition. The magazines contains advertisement made mainly by design students. There were two advertisements for art school that we discussed: a small pencil used on both ends and a baby carriage with a baby holding a chainsaw. The pencil advertisement looked like a cigarette to me cause of the smoke, but it was to show that the pencil was used a lot to make it like that. Funny that the majority of the class got that concept instead of what I got. I guess I see things differently, not sure if that's good or bad... But, none of us understood the baby and chainsaw ad. I pointed out that if the baby held art supplies instead of the tool, then it would be perfect for the art school ad to show that children need to be raised exploring their imaginations. The only thing we could come up with for the ad is that babies are dangerous.
To understand how the advertisement came to be, we learned about creative briefs - where concepts of ideas are discussed in the meeting board. The necessary parts are: goal, audience, media, and purpose. We discussed what the best way to find out what's hot/ in for our age group. For us, the best way is by watching TV mainly MTV. We used an example of bikini girls and football on MTV to explore how that concept came to be. That was interesting information for me, since it was the first time I heard of it. Definitely not something I want to watch lol XP. Another way to get more information was to be curious, absorb information and what's in. To get the best original idea, it's best not to look up the internet. If you do, the design would be copied instead of uniquely yours. I definitely need to work on that since I'm usually open to new ideas and the internet is just so handy. Hopefully I'll try to follow this advice for my creativity.
We then went over the homework of having 10 phrases / headlines for one image. I was the first one up since I was next to Jimmy, and I did a horrible job. My image was the center of a highway and most of my words were about it such as - road trip, neverending journey, one way road, go straight, etc. Apparently I was too literal and descriptive for the concept challenge. It needed to be something unrelated to the image and still make sense while shifting different emotions and meanings. The whole circle of students had similar problems so we had to do the same thing for homework. But there were some that understood and did excellent job of having witty and unexpected headlines. Some were even humorous and emotional. Definitely something I need to work on.
To understand how the advertisement came to be, we learned about creative briefs - where concepts of ideas are discussed in the meeting board. The necessary parts are: goal, audience, media, and purpose. We discussed what the best way to find out what's hot/ in for our age group. For us, the best way is by watching TV mainly MTV. We used an example of bikini girls and football on MTV to explore how that concept came to be. That was interesting information for me, since it was the first time I heard of it. Definitely not something I want to watch lol XP. Another way to get more information was to be curious, absorb information and what's in. To get the best original idea, it's best not to look up the internet. If you do, the design would be copied instead of uniquely yours. I definitely need to work on that since I'm usually open to new ideas and the internet is just so handy. Hopefully I'll try to follow this advice for my creativity.
We then went over the homework of having 10 phrases / headlines for one image. I was the first one up since I was next to Jimmy, and I did a horrible job. My image was the center of a highway and most of my words were about it such as - road trip, neverending journey, one way road, go straight, etc. Apparently I was too literal and descriptive for the concept challenge. It needed to be something unrelated to the image and still make sense while shifting different emotions and meanings. The whole circle of students had similar problems so we had to do the same thing for homework. But there were some that understood and did excellent job of having witty and unexpected headlines. Some were even humorous and emotional. Definitely something I need to work on.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Oct 7 - GAUGE Meet and Greet
Yeah, I know this is very very late. Been meaning to put this post up but got busy with work and forgot about it. XP
Anwayz, I was able to attend the GAUGE Meet and Greet at the Fine Arts Gallery at 3 pm after my art history class. My friend, Britteny, came with me so I didn't feel that awkward going. The food was Sbarro pizza and some refreshments. While everyone was eating , each person from AIGA would go and interact with any of the visitors. Our host was nicknamed "the Boogie Man", who talked to us about the GAUGE, the website, the benefits, and encouraged us join AIGA. Then, the GAUGE people went up and did an announcement of the same thing with introduction of all GAUGE members and questions answered. Before leaving, there was a picture taken of everyone there. Unexpected but nice. Overall, it was a nice setting and the people were very nice and informative. I might go to the next GAUGE gathering.
Joining AIGA would cost $50 (compared to the original price of $100 I believe) IF 20 people joined. Saw the sign-in sheet and there were only 12 people there. Maybe there are more people interested in joining who were not able to make it to the meet and greet. Not sure when the deadline for that is, but I'm thinking of signing up. They told us to check the website for more information.
Next GAUGE meeting: Helvetica film screening, changed to 3rd floor of art building, 7-9pm
website: gaugerocks.com and aigalosangeles.org
Anwayz, I was able to attend the GAUGE Meet and Greet at the Fine Arts Gallery at 3 pm after my art history class. My friend, Britteny, came with me so I didn't feel that awkward going. The food was Sbarro pizza and some refreshments. While everyone was eating , each person from AIGA would go and interact with any of the visitors. Our host was nicknamed "the Boogie Man", who talked to us about the GAUGE, the website, the benefits, and encouraged us join AIGA. Then, the GAUGE people went up and did an announcement of the same thing with introduction of all GAUGE members and questions answered. Before leaving, there was a picture taken of everyone there. Unexpected but nice. Overall, it was a nice setting and the people were very nice and informative. I might go to the next GAUGE gathering.
Joining AIGA would cost $50 (compared to the original price of $100 I believe) IF 20 people joined. Saw the sign-in sheet and there were only 12 people there. Maybe there are more people interested in joining who were not able to make it to the meet and greet. Not sure when the deadline for that is, but I'm thinking of signing up. They told us to check the website for more information.
Next GAUGE meeting: Helvetica film screening, changed to 3rd floor of art building, 7-9pm
website: gaugerocks.com and aigalosangeles.org
10/13 - Storytelling and Film
On Wed. the class had a discussion over what storytelling is: the basic parts of storytelling and what makes a good story. The basic parts of storytelling consist of the beginning, middle, end, plot, characters, theme, etc. A good story contains drama, humor and different types of genres, such as adventure, drama, romance, mystery, thriller-horror, etc. Next, we had everyone share their homework of having 3 different pictures forming an unwritten story. The concept became a bit more complicated than I had originally thought as the class discussed everyone's homework. My 3 pictures only have places; it need people to make it a successful storytelling. The homework is to choose one image and think of 10 words/phrases to have different meanings for it. Not exactly my strong suit as I'm more of an obvious person than witty per se, but I'll see how it goes.
The class still had time after the storytelling lecture and activities, so we watched a video from TED - Technology Entertainment Designer with Elizabeth, author of "Eat, Pray, Love", as guest speaker on creative process. She was very entertaining and inspiring, I can see how she can be an excellent writer. The origin of the creative idea was based on Greece as "daemons" and Rome as spirits, both as separate beings from humans. This is best as it would be too much for one individual. Getting aid from God helps lessen the pressure on people. Some creative process comes unexpectedly with no source and appear fleetingly. She encouraged the creative minds to live and not on negative assumption. Don't be worried of past successes or other people's negative comments, just do work and be stubborn to stick to it through and through.
By the way, Jimmy was still his energetic self so he's doing okay. But I noticed that he didn't have his usual coffee, so he must have still been a bit sick. Random info: "jimmy" in British means "condom." @_@ I'm so thankful now that my name is a bit complicated.
The class still had time after the storytelling lecture and activities, so we watched a video from TED - Technology Entertainment Designer with Elizabeth, author of "Eat, Pray, Love", as guest speaker on creative process. She was very entertaining and inspiring, I can see how she can be an excellent writer. The origin of the creative idea was based on Greece as "daemons" and Rome as spirits, both as separate beings from humans. This is best as it would be too much for one individual. Getting aid from God helps lessen the pressure on people. Some creative process comes unexpectedly with no source and appear fleetingly. She encouraged the creative minds to live and not on negative assumption. Don't be worried of past successes or other people's negative comments, just do work and be stubborn to stick to it through and through.
By the way, Jimmy was still his energetic self so he's doing okay. But I noticed that he didn't have his usual coffee, so he must have still been a bit sick. Random info: "jimmy" in British means "condom." @_@ I'm so thankful now that my name is a bit complicated.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Oct. 11 - storytelling
NO CLASS! Jimmy was sick so there were no class, and he emailed the homework. Hope he's ok. Could have slept in if I had checked my email the night before -_-. Anyway, the assignment is:
Visual Narratives:
Select three unrelated, found images that when sequenced together, tell a story.
Bring them to class, for Wednesday.
We will put all three up on the wall, and try to “read” the story that your images tell.
So we have to do storytelling with 3 visual imagery. This will be interesting. Wonder how tomorrow will go. ^_^
Also love the ending phrase: "~ If you print this email, trees will eat you. ~" XD
Visual Narratives:
Select three unrelated, found images that when sequenced together, tell a story.
Bring them to class, for Wednesday.
We will put all three up on the wall, and try to “read” the story that your images tell.
So we have to do storytelling with 3 visual imagery. This will be interesting. Wonder how tomorrow will go. ^_^
Also love the ending phrase: "~ If you print this email, trees will eat you. ~" XD
Monday, October 11, 2010
reading 2 - introduction, perspective ( 1-16 p)
Yoo-hoo! Ordered the book and it came yesterday. Came quicker than I thought. And I saved around $8 for that, not much but gotta work with what you got. ^_^
The introduction gives a brief information about each of the 7 steps for the design process: inspiration, identification, conceptualization, exploration/refinement, definition/modeling. communication, and production. The steps is a basic process of how an idea evolves to a product design.
The first section explains how design can be seen everywhere all around us, from the clothes to the building. "A design is a plan of action, created in response to a situation or problems that needs solving." The design process have several stops to allow the designers to examine the idea until it is completed. Then, there is a comparison of how the steps of design process is similar to a romantic relationship (Cute idea, can see how commitment can be used for both situation lol.) Then there is a section of designing responsibility for going "green" in the productivity. It would be a downfall to focus on that instead of durability in the design, so it's up to the designers to decide on those factors for the design process. The designing process could be a path of a map instead of linear as the idea is of the imagination. But it's important to revisit the idea time to time in order to stay on track of producing design product.
In "Perspective" section, the author, Karl Aspelund, gives his own various career experience and his view on design. "Designers should be creating interesting, revolutionary, and environmentally sound products, buildings, and environments for everyone." The exercise section has a design journal to go through the process of reverse-designing. It helps to give references on the path of the design process to take.
The introduction gives a brief information about each of the 7 steps for the design process: inspiration, identification, conceptualization, exploration/refinement, definition/modeling. communication, and production. The steps is a basic process of how an idea evolves to a product design.
The first section explains how design can be seen everywhere all around us, from the clothes to the building. "A design is a plan of action, created in response to a situation or problems that needs solving." The design process have several stops to allow the designers to examine the idea until it is completed. Then, there is a comparison of how the steps of design process is similar to a romantic relationship (Cute idea, can see how commitment can be used for both situation lol.) Then there is a section of designing responsibility for going "green" in the productivity. It would be a downfall to focus on that instead of durability in the design, so it's up to the designers to decide on those factors for the design process. The designing process could be a path of a map instead of linear as the idea is of the imagination. But it's important to revisit the idea time to time in order to stay on track of producing design product.
In "Perspective" section, the author, Karl Aspelund, gives his own various career experience and his view on design. "Designers should be creating interesting, revolutionary, and environmentally sound products, buildings, and environments for everyone." The exercise section has a design journal to go through the process of reverse-designing. It helps to give references on the path of the design process to take.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Oct 6 - Film and Discussion
I came late to class and they were watching a video lecture of Sir Ken Robinson (I believe). He was humorous in his lecture so it was surprisingly entertaining. The lecture was about the relation between individuals looking for their talent and the environment, mainly education. Surprisingly he was against the standardized education in the US since people loses their individuality. Main Point: people achieve best when doing things they love and be in their own element (natural aptitude and capacity.) They have to find what they are naturally drawn to and have passion for. But first, people need to flourish and remove hindrance. This is where the environment and upbringing comes in, education helps the people to explore different options for their passion and the friends/family would either encourage or put pressure on the individuals for their goals and passion.
The class then had a discussion concerning the video. Everyone agreed with Robinson especially about the family putting pressure on the art students. (Art is not usually the parent''s choice for their children to aim for, but rather like lawyer, doctor, etc.) I was lucky that my parents were happy with my decision as long as I had a goal to aim for. Which was funny since my mom was also a graphic designer student and attended Academy of Art, and is now a banker. lol XD
Lastly, we showed the mind mapping homework and had a minicontest for the best one with original concept and execution. The winner was Cee with "If killer carrots attacked." Very humorous and entertaining. ^_^
The class then had a discussion concerning the video. Everyone agreed with Robinson especially about the family putting pressure on the art students. (Art is not usually the parent''s choice for their children to aim for, but rather like lawyer, doctor, etc.) I was lucky that my parents were happy with my decision as long as I had a goal to aim for. Which was funny since my mom was also a graphic designer student and attended Academy of Art, and is now a banker. lol XD
Lastly, we showed the mind mapping homework and had a minicontest for the best one with original concept and execution. The winner was Cee with "If killer carrots attacked." Very humorous and entertaining. ^_^
Oct 4 - Idea Mapping
When class started, the powerpoint/computer didn't work. So the teacher chose ME to make "electricity/ power"and be the "manager" - I did not volunteer, I blame sitting in the front seat...-_-Apparently we had to plug it somewhere else to make it work. He ended picking on me throughout the class. I didn't mind, got a few laughs. XP
Anywayz the class had a discussion on what brainstorming is. This led to mind mapping. Mind mapping is a diagram used to represent ideas linked around a central area. It's almost like a widespread outline centering on one topic/ situation. Some of the visuals presented were simple, random, generic, and humorous.
We did a quick 20 min exercise in class of making our own mind map. Mine was the most dull cause it was a Monday and I wasn't feeling active - "if wake up and miss class"....yyyeeeeahhhh.... Anywayz after look at the whole class's mind maps, we decided to have the next homework to make another that is better, bold and colored.
Anywayz the class had a discussion on what brainstorming is. This led to mind mapping. Mind mapping is a diagram used to represent ideas linked around a central area. It's almost like a widespread outline centering on one topic/ situation. Some of the visuals presented were simple, random, generic, and humorous.
We did a quick 20 min exercise in class of making our own mind map. Mine was the most dull cause it was a Monday and I wasn't feeling active - "if wake up and miss class"....yyyeeeeahhhh.... Anywayz after look at the whole class's mind maps, we decided to have the next homework to make another that is better, bold and colored.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Reading: Design Process. cover - xviii (21 p)
Book: Aspelund, Karl. Design Process - cover - xvii (21 p)
For some reason, Borders did not have this book so I'm guessing that Barnes & Nobles also doesn't. Fortunately, I was able to download some pages of the book but it only goes up to page 38. Hopefully this will hold me up until I order the book. And I know this is really late, but it's hard to write 3 paragraphs / a paper just on the introduction. Hopefully this is ok.... -_-
The assigned reading is essentially the preface of the book and acknowledgment of the author. The introduction explains how this guidebook helps student designers to do design process from inspiration to production. There are 7 stages for the design process: inspiration, identification, conceptualization, exploration/refinement, definition, modeling, communication and production. The stages contain several sections to help explain each steps: objective and key concepts, perspectives, appendixes, exercises, and illustrations.
The acknowledgment contains information of the author's 20 years experience and the people that he thanks for their contribution. There are two other sections between the preface and acknowledgment: "who should use this book" and "new to the second edition." "Who should use this book" explains that the book is mainly used for design students and professional designers. A CD is also mentioned to help on the lectures. "New to the second edition" explains how the book has been improved from the first edition with updated information and better "teachability." .
The introduction is really helpful for me as a design student since it explains how the book would help me in the design process. It gave me a glimpse of what to expect from the guidebook.So far, the pages are easily understood so it won't be that complicated for me to read. From reading these pages, I learned how the design process works in 7 steps. I also learned the design process can help in the production of all art aspects.
For some reason, Borders did not have this book so I'm guessing that Barnes & Nobles also doesn't. Fortunately, I was able to download some pages of the book but it only goes up to page 38. Hopefully this will hold me up until I order the book. And I know this is really late, but it's hard to write 3 paragraphs / a paper just on the introduction. Hopefully this is ok.... -_-
The assigned reading is essentially the preface of the book and acknowledgment of the author. The introduction explains how this guidebook helps student designers to do design process from inspiration to production. There are 7 stages for the design process: inspiration, identification, conceptualization, exploration/refinement, definition, modeling, communication and production. The stages contain several sections to help explain each steps: objective and key concepts, perspectives, appendixes, exercises, and illustrations.
The acknowledgment contains information of the author's 20 years experience and the people that he thanks for their contribution. There are two other sections between the preface and acknowledgment: "who should use this book" and "new to the second edition." "Who should use this book" explains that the book is mainly used for design students and professional designers. A CD is also mentioned to help on the lectures. "New to the second edition" explains how the book has been improved from the first edition with updated information and better "teachability." .
The introduction is really helpful for me as a design student since it explains how the book would help me in the design process. It gave me a glimpse of what to expect from the guidebook.So far, the pages are easily understood so it won't be that complicated for me to read. From reading these pages, I learned how the design process works in 7 steps. I also learned the design process can help in the production of all art aspects.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Second Class - 9/29/10
Second day of class Lesson - Visual Literacy
First thing the class did was seat ourselves by birth month. Guess this helps to socialize the class and liven things up. Guest speakers of GAUGE (art committee) appeared for information if any art majors would like to attend of the meetings. The class was also required to attend certain of those meetings, so the guest speakers helped to give out a better descriptions of the committee and what the benefits are.
The lesson starts with a discussion about what "visual literacy" is, and the basic definition is: making sense of what you perceive or reading images. Examples: storytelling, movies, sequence of pictures, etc. The class exercises were to look at 2 photographs and state what the class see (facts) and interpret from it. Then, there was a picture slideshow of the different messages that can be made from various images and text, some even transgressive - offensive, bold messages that steps over people's boundaries.
Picture: one army solder in casket vs several caskets, obama as joker, crucifix scene with bubble texts of Christ saying "BRB" and another person has "LOL"
The last thing the class did was spend 20 minutes making a short illustration of why or how each person is at Cal State LA right now. I'm guessing next class, we are going to look over everybody's sketches. Yeah my drawing is very simple -_-
First thing the class did was seat ourselves by birth month. Guess this helps to socialize the class and liven things up. Guest speakers of GAUGE (art committee) appeared for information if any art majors would like to attend of the meetings. The class was also required to attend certain of those meetings, so the guest speakers helped to give out a better descriptions of the committee and what the benefits are.
The lesson starts with a discussion about what "visual literacy" is, and the basic definition is: making sense of what you perceive or reading images. Examples: storytelling, movies, sequence of pictures, etc. The class exercises were to look at 2 photographs and state what the class see (facts) and interpret from it. Then, there was a picture slideshow of the different messages that can be made from various images and text, some even transgressive - offensive, bold messages that steps over people's boundaries.
Picture: one army solder in casket vs several caskets, obama as joker, crucifix scene with bubble texts of Christ saying "BRB" and another person has "LOL"
The last thing the class did was spend 20 minutes making a short illustration of why or how each person is at Cal State LA right now. I'm guessing next class, we are going to look over everybody's sketches. Yeah my drawing is very simple -_-
Art 220 - First class 9/27/10
On the first class of Art 220 Concept Development, I arrived 10-15 min late XP. Fortunately the teacher, Jimmy Moss, was nice about it. The class was to write what we think we are going to learn and do in the class on notecards. Jimmy then read out the notecards out loud with no names announced. Most of the words use were: concept, design, process, brainstorm, and creating. There was a class discussion about what the definitions are of some of the words. Then the class talked about brand products with the energy drinks, Monster and Red Bull, as comparisons.
Next, we had a class exercise with examining an apple and making descriptions of it as a never before seen object. (Basically, use all 5 senses to describe it - see it, smell it, touch it, hear it, taste it...XP). Apparently, one of the art project is to render the apple in different art mediums and styles on each 7"x7" paper for a total of 50 sketches (5 times a week, 10 weeks of school).
The last thing we did ( I believe) is to go over the syllabus of the class. And this blog is part of the class assignment, so expect more posts.
Next, we had a class exercise with examining an apple and making descriptions of it as a never before seen object. (Basically, use all 5 senses to describe it - see it, smell it, touch it, hear it, taste it...XP). Apparently, one of the art project is to render the apple in different art mediums and styles on each 7"x7" paper for a total of 50 sketches (5 times a week, 10 weeks of school).
The last thing we did ( I believe) is to go over the syllabus of the class. And this blog is part of the class assignment, so expect more posts.
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