Final competency proects for DMDC 1060 Graphic Design Principles course at DavisTech by Josh Beames

1. Graphic Design Solutions

2. Draw a series of line
sets of equal length
and equal interval
from each other.

4.  Develop a series of five line studies that are spaced and arranged according to the
following criteria:
 A regular-spaced interval-black and white are equal.
 Alternate the spacing interval-black is constant to itself and white varies dramatically.
 Black constantly increases and white remains constant to itself.
 Black increases as white decreases in width.
 Black and white increase constantly but at different rates.

6.  Using a line, a letter, and a leaf produce two contrasting compositions.
You may also sue up to three planes or divisions in the background. Decide
beforehand how the two compositions will contrast.

8.  Design two contrasting compositions based on one of the following sets of
complements:
negative/positive, jagged/straight, geometric/organic, serene/chaotic,
rough/smooth, random/orderly, saturated/pastel, static/kinetic,
monumental/diminutive. Use primarily basic geometric and nonobjective shapes
and lines. Strive for economy in the compositions.

10.  Produce a composition composed of nine smaller letterform compositions. Begin by
generating 20 to 25, 3” x 3” black-and-white studies using a variety of single
letterforms. Variety is the key – variety of typefaces, scale changes, figure-ground
relationships, orientation, proximity in the small compositions. Cut the small
studies carefully into a 3- inch square. Create a new, larger composition using 9 of
the small studies arranged in a 9-unit grid, 3 studies across by 3 studies down.
Work to create overall continuity (unity) and rhythm from one unit to the next.

12.  Design a color collage composition for one of the four seasons. Research the season
and select a color scheme of a triad and one accent color. The design consists of
graphic elements that depict the season and the word name of the season.
 The name can be incorporated with other graphic elements to create the essence of
the chosen seasonal theme in the abstract design. Work with scale changes,
economy, and directional changes to enhance the composition. Establish a visual
hierarchy.

14.  Select a typeface that is expressive of each of the following words and manipulate
it in a way that further enhances the meaning of each:
- Stodgy
- Crush
- Ornate
- sludge
 Select one of the works you have manipulated and incorporate it into a two-color
design composition that includes an image that supports the meaning of the word.
Use color judiciously and apply the principles you have learned in this course,
such as repetition, rhythm, and scale to create a dynamic composition.

16.  Apply what you’ve learned about creating hierarchy, organizing visuals in
composition, and leading the viewer’s eye so that it loops through all of the
elements in the composition.

18.  Find a photograph or snapshot that has not been professionally shot or composed.
Make two L-shaped pieces cut from black poster board or construction paper. Crop
the photo by positioning these pieces so that the areas of the photo that don’t
improve its composition are eliminated and the best portion of the photograph is
preserved. When you’ve found a crop that works, tape the L-shaped pieces
together, mark off, and trim your final selection.

20.  Come up with a design that shows strong alignment, good type contrast, well
balanced and composed, and other techniques you have learned.
 Suggested subjects: Touring in Utah, Ski in Utah, any flyers for summer activities
and events such as concerts, art festivals, or design a DAVIS TECH T-Shirt.
(If you choose to design DavisTech T-shirt, make sure you read about the design
guideline. You should be able to find the PDF file under Course References.)