OUGD406
Overall
Module Evaluation
OUGD406 has
covered a wide range of design application. From book design to exhibition
branding. The diverse nature of the module gave the opportunity to develop new
skills and experiment with different techniques. This module was found to be
more self-directed than others giving more creative freedom but in some
respects made idea generation more difficult as there were less boundaries to
consider.
Studio
brief one was very much client lead. The penguin book cover competition gave an
exciting edge to the brief as it was live. For this brief the book, to kill a
mocking bird, was chosen. Research into the book, the author, the characters
and the cultural setting was conducted. This context helped pick the correct
tone of voice and personality for the cover. Typography, composition,
understanding of the market place and readership were considered when designing
the cover. It was interesting to design an object that would have to be appropriate
for a wide audience and see how this effected the final design.
Studio
Brief 2 looked at traditional print techniques with the final outcome to be displayed
at the end of year show. This allowed new techniques to be explored including
wood work, foiling and screen printing. The design had to be based on a moment
in Leeds’ past. Choosing an event to celebrate required vast research and
creating a visual representation of these events was challenging. The aim was
to tell a storey through the prints. Tutor and peer crits were essential in
this brief to help develop ideas and produce an outcome that is successful.
Studio brief
3 was a collaborative project to design the concept, branding, identity and
promotional collateral for the end of year show. Working as part of a group
brought a new dynamic to the design process. The project was not only about
designing well considered work but also working as part of a team and managing
responsibilities. One of the advantages of working as part of a team is the
ability to bounce ideas off one another. This helped develop the design process
much quicker than if working individually. The importance of colour matching
and an inclusive and consistent identity was highlighted during this task. This
brief forced the team to consider matters outside designing the identity, such
as social media presence, networking and costings. The outcome had to be
pitched to a board of lecturers and senior students, improving the team’s
presentation skills. This task presented the opportunity to become a team
leader. This has been challenging but has helped develop time management
skills, budgeting and delegation.
Studio
brief 4 gave the opportunity to reflect on the first year at Leeds College of
Art and produce a response that would support the new level 4’s starting the
course. This brief gave the most freedom. The final outcome was fun and
engaging and allowed laser cutting methods to be developed, it also shows some
of the facilities available at the college. Creating the illustration for each
pub was enjoyable. Illustrative practice will be developed throughout level 5.
This brief had a very quick turnaround. The final product effectively communicated
the idea but could be refined.
In
conclusion, all designs have been competently executed. Developments have been
made within all aspects of design, especially when using adobe programs and
traditional print methods. This module has opened many opportunities to explore
different areas of design. Some areas have been very challenging, especially
studio brief 3 with the large-scale identity and branding. The module also came
with personal challenges such as team work and time management. Working as part
of a team is essential, therefore learning how to function as a member of one
in first year is a great skill to have. Feedback from tutors and peers have
been essential throughout this module as each brief is so varied and some
briefs are very open ended such as studio brief 4. Advice and critiques are
most helpful in these situations.
Improvements
in visual communication and problem solving can be seen as the module has
progressed. Increased amounts of research have improved problem solving techniques
and allowed the appropriate media to be chosen as seen in studio brief 2 where
every material used is justified.
