Graphic Translations: PART 1

Choose an object that has simple shapes, patterns and textures (goldfish,bee, etc.).
Be careful not to choose an object that is too complex.

A translation is not a drawing, live trace or illustration.
You are not simply tracing over an image to get a final result.

A translation is something you design.

You need to prove you have control over your shapes, lines and curves.
Always be aware of figure-ground relationships. Use Gestalt techniques such as proximity, closure, continuity, figure-ground, similarity, etc.

Click here for more information about Gestalt techniques + examples

Assignment

Design graphic translations. A graphic translation is a mark or icon of an item that is reduced to its essence in very simple geometric shapes. They typically utilize Gestalt techniques to make them simple, yet effective communication devices.

Design a graphic translation. Keep It Simple!
Design a minimum of six (6) total translations.
Choose an object and using black and white only (NOT gray scale).
Design it by simplifying its physical characteristics into positive and negative shapes.

Use solid black and white SHAPES.

Process

Choose your object on the basis of shape, line, figure/ground relationships, contour, etc, as well as interest and possibilities of application.

Investigate visually through numerous sketches from most interesting points of view [POV]. Explore several different points of view while working on your sketches.

Simplify and reduce—in other words—abstract to a symbolic interpretation maintaining elements of recognizability and aesthetic considerations.

For the first draft of this assignment, submit 1 files with your four text-image pairs.

Graphic Translations: Part 2

Image + Word Pairing

GraphicTranslations-PT2_Examples

For the final print please use the template supplied and incorporate the six designs from part one and the four word-image pairs. Below is a tutorial on how to import PDFs into InDesign and how to make a PDF from within the application (it is different from using Illustrator!)

Download Instructions Here for How to import PDFs into the InDesign Template and create a PDF from InDesign