Category Archives: Graphic Arts

This Category should be selected if you are a Graphics Arts student.

Summary Post

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Over the last ten weeks, I have been able to constructively analyse a range of art from different disciplines and time periods and have learnt about different movements that have helped to shape the world in which we now live. In particular, I have learnt how photographs and animations can been turned into short filmed, enabling space for greater comparison, such as within ‘Terminal Bar’. I have been able to see how art has influenced and aided these movements, from propaganda posters which were mass-produced to stand alone photographs which have become symbols of revolution. From this project, I have been able to obtain a better understanding of just how powerful art can be and the wide range of topics that it can be used for.

Adding a deeper meaning to my artwork is something that I wish to continue with, working different layers of subtlety to create a piece which is ultimately stronger. By looking at this project and all the different forms of art, I have begun to realise that I need to think more about the smaller details, like the choice of the typeface, colour and symbolism which will all aid to produce a more powerful piece. I should also research my chosen topic, before jumping straight to the design. This way, I believe I would be able to produce a piece which is more informative and that I could hide information also, incorporating it into the visual design. I feel also that I now have more courage to start experimenting with different techniques and disciplines, after looking at all the different results which can be produced.

I feel that I have been most influenced by the subcultures of the 1960’s; how they denied following the set rules, how they challenged and experimented with colour, typography and a new way of living. I found it fascinating to see how it was able to accumulate to such a grand scale despite not having all of the technology we have available today. Additionally, I enjoy learning of current protests today, how meaning and symbolism has been translated into our own consumer society. One particular example of current protests is the company ‘Adbusters’ who commonly play on phrases set by big businesses and highlight negativity or corruption.  I admire all the courage and defiance put in to making these pieces of art and hope to bring these ideas to my own future work, particularly with the theme of veganism. I was amazed at how one piece of art could spark such a radical change.

Overall, I do feel that this project has been beneficial for me. I have gained a greater knowledge of the history of art, terminology and of all the disciplines available on this course. I have also been able to reflect upon my own work and compare it to professional practitioners, gathering inspirations and targets for improvements.

Is it possible to be truly authentic?

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According to me, the easiest way to describe authenticity is that, authenticity is something that is genuine, not replicated or plagiarized. In terms of art, I do not believe that it is possible to be truly authentic. There are various artists who usually use ideas and concepts of other artists and try to replicate the design with a twist of their own and some also try to something that is more relatable to the modern society. But, there is a huge difference between replicating and creating. An artist who replicates other artists work basically shows their studio skills and an artist who creates something from scratch shows their creativity, for example- The replication of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper artwork has been done multiple times, one of the famous replication of this artwork is by Andy Warhol.

By Leonardo da Vinci

This is the original artwork of The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, he is one of the most famous artist and his work has been admired worldwide.

 

Replication by Andy Warhol

As we can see in this replication by Andy that there are not many changes, and it does not show much as creativity as the original painting. There is also a term ‘genuine fake’ where the work of the original artist is recreated by a fake artist but it is usually hard to identify since it seems to be authentic. So, although we can say that this is a replication but it is definitely not authentic.

 

https://www.leonardodavinci.net/the-last-supper.jsp

https://www.flavorpaper.com/wallpaper/murals/last-supper-mural

 

 

 

 

 

Publish! – Story, Message, Feeling, Connection

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With so much corruption and problems within our modern world, it is only natural for people to create art with strong meanings and connections, whether they are clear or hidden. These often connect with a wide range of viewers, sparking a reaction and a call for change.

 

 

I greatly enjoyed the irony within this piece and the direct contrast to the magazine and the subject. I feel it relates to the irony most people feel within times of war – how can we create peace by using weapons and bloodshed? The addition of the missing teeth portrays a shocked emotion upon the skull which only adds to the irony. I also admired the use of the dark background, emphasising the dark atmosphere and meaning. Furthermore, I liked how it wasn’t pure black as if the subject was placed into a void; there are smudges and scratches which make it appear more life-like but also as if someone was trying to wipe away and hide something.

 

For me, there is a large depth of contrast within this image. We see a young boy, who normally is full of connotations of innocence, points the gun at the viewer with an expression so full of anguish. This contrast sparks a call for change regarding gun laws. The power play in this photograph is interesting; the viewer has become victimised, the gun so close that it is no longer in focus, as if we are unaware and searching for the reason behind our fate. We see a character in the background with their back towards us, as if this is a daily occurrence which we have become immune to. I feel that the use of the smaller boy is also key, he looks to the older child in admiration and we regret that he will most likely follow in the same path. However, he has his hand upon him, is this in support or to stop the event?

 

 

The business and clutter within this photo directly relates to the way the majority of the population lives their lives – following the crowd, buying into consumerism. The lifelessness of the female on the bed along with the small and cramped conditions of the room help to reinforce ‘the less you live’. She is alone within the photo and has become victimised by the society we live in. The use of the second person within the text also directs the image at the viewer and I liked the wordplay of the title ‘Buyological Urge’. It is not within our human nature to desire these objects, it is because of marketing that we have fallen into this downward spiral of misery.

Image one: Protect and Survive, Peter Kennard (1980)

Image two: William Klein, Gun 1, New York, (1955)

Image three: Adbusters, Buyological Urge

 

Final Summary

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I have enjoyed the tasks that I was given throughout these 9 weeks. Having research to do once a week really did help me find artists that inspired my work. There were a lot of new work that I came across during the 9 weeks, which pushed me to looking more into those areas for future ideas. Also some of the questions that were given really got me thinking. The “Is it possible to be truly authentic?” Question was probably my favourite. I enjoyed giving my opinion on this topic, it was also something that I have not previously thought about. So having received a question like this automatically made me research into artists and authenticity, I realised I had a lot to say on this question. I looked at designs and compared them with each other, trying to figure out where most inspiration comes from. Trying to figure out which artists works are familiar, who inspires who etc. This is an amazing example of how research gives you important knowledge for the future.
I realised that I certainly go for the posters/publications and illustrations that include big and bold typography. Typography that grabs your attention. For most of the tasks I used examples of typography, which shows where most of my interests are based on.
Research like this can help and show you what you are interested in, if you are not sure yourself. What I mean by this is, you will find yourself using examples of things that draw you in, which in the end means it is what you are fascinated by. This module also helped us to look into areas of each four pathways. For example being able to choose an illustration, or a photograph for the tasks. This is a positive thing because it did not limit us down, we had good options.
I looked at Postmodernism art which was one of the tasks. It reminded me how much I previously enjoyed this particular style of work, and I ended up looking into more. I wanted to relook at something that I was fascinated by in the past, something that research reminded me to go back on. This is why I think having research to find along with studio work is a very important factor. It helps you find a variety of different artists/work that you probably have not come across before, which helps to inspire you for your studio practical work. It helps you expand your knowledge. Also having knowledge on many designers will always be a positive thing for your own sake, it means you are more aware of different styles etc. Theory is what should always come before your practical.

Publish or Perish!

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This is my first chosen image. I was drawn to this as soon as I saw it. The hierarchy is amazing. They exaggeration of the S really attracts peoples attention, and you will definitely not miss it. So thats the first positive of this layout, the fact that it draws the audience in at first glance. They have highlighted the S for the “side effects” which is what people would want the most information on. In the centre they have placed the title “wash your face.” The type that they have used it quite bold and the whole imagine looks powerful altogether. The contrast between the black and white has also given this article a less is more vibe. They have no overloaded with colours, this is probably because the article is not such a positive or cheery topic. The black and white colours highlight the seriousness they are trying to put across. The smoke appearing to come from the S also shows something of a toxic nature, something that is causing problems for the S. Again this is to highlight the side effects, the toxic and negative side effects.

My second publication, a poster.
Although this poster gives off a messy look, you can see that it does in fact include organisation. You can see the layout has been thought through, the typography is placed neatly on the page. But behind the organised typography is the messiness. It includes splatters of ink/paint. The quote reads “excuse the mess” which relates to the messy background. They are trying to put across a messy design to add up with the chosen quote. It seems to be a “controlled” mess, something that is not too over the top.
A very simple typography publication. Has a strong hand made feel to it, almost like a simple doodle. Very well put together, along with the white on dark blue. The colour scheme draws attention to the centre where the artist most likely wanted it to be. The illustrations gives off a happy and friendly vibe, which could be the reason some people become drawn towards it.

 

 

 

 

  •  Jennifer Wick Laos (n.d) Typographic Poster Available at: https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.pinterest.com/amp/pin/510384570248084351/ (Accessed 28 November 2017)
  • Ben Hassell (n.d) Harper’s Bazaar Available at: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/harpersbazaar/ (Accessed 28 November 2017)
  • Anonymous (n.d) Scandinavian posters Available at: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/ManonGhiurco/scandinavian-posters/ (Accessed 28 November 2017)

 

Show, Reveal, Deconstruct (Postmodernism)

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This poster is a postmodern Graphic design. It’s a mixture of photography, and typography.
Personally, I find this very interesting, with the jumble of words and the imagery. The photograph is in black and white, which makes the black and white typography match the image. I also prefer to use a black and white image if I do add imagery into my typography work. I feel like an image with colour complicates the whole thing, and the more minimal it looks, the better in my opinion. It’s not that harsh on the audience’s eyes, but it does look confusing at first glance. Some words are cut in a way that does not make sense when you first look at it, but this is what makes it different, meaning it would attract more attention. It also says ‘rules are good break them’’ which relates to the whole layout, it’s not your tradition perfect in order typography poster.
Again a very different design. The placement is not in perfect order, type is scattered around and there is again no use of colour. The design is very strong on its own, no colour was needed. The quote works well with the image used, pointing that the person in the cracked mirror is not themselves. I am interested in the cut out look of the typography, looks almost child like.
Because I gave two examples of postmodernism art without colour, I decided to choose one with colour for the final. This one is such an eye catching design, guaranteed to grab the audiences attention. This design definitely cannot be missed. This is the upside of postmodernism work, I think it grabs the attention of many people. Placements look great, the whole cut and paste look is adding more to the busy look of the page.
Looks fuller than the other two, probably because colour is involved. In my opinion the colour scheme that is used here does not work well together, but for this design it certainly has. It gives it that look of postmodernism.

 

 

 

  • Anonymous (n.d) posters. Available at https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/432345632962991346/ (Accessed 20 November 2017)
  • Xinying (2011) ‘Postmodernism? What exactly does Postmodernism art look like?’ Post Modernism Graphic Styles 23 August Available at: http://postmodernismgraphicstyles.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/post-modernism-visuals.html?m=1 (Accessed 20 November 2017)
  • Xinying (2011) ‘Postmodernism? What exactly does Postmodernism art look like?’ Post Modernism Graphic Styles 23 August Available at: http://postmodernismgraphicstyles.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/post-modernism-visuals.html?m=1 (Accessed 20 November 2017)

Postmodernism – Show, Reveal, Deconstruct

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Marking a departure from Modernism, Postmodernism is a philosophical movement that was characterised by scepticism, a general suspicion of reasoning and of maintaining political and economic power. Questions were being asked, ideologies and objects were being deconstructed. We began to truly understand and appreciate objects for what they are.

 

 

I liked the amount of emotion Kruger was able to capture within this piece and how the typography brings in elements of graphic design, rather than just photography. Additionally, the ‘not’ is a lot smaller in size and not cut up, meaning that it could be easily missed, bringing double meanings to the piece and highlighting how the subject feels. I thought that the broken text reflected the imagery of the shattered mirror, showing that the subject could be perhaps feeling that her life is falling apart. The addition of the tear drop reinforces this.

 

 

 

I liked the composition of this piece. Although there are lots of random objects that don’t seem to fit together, the piece is balanced. The viewer is automatically drawn to the portrait in the centre, due to the composition, and due to the layered triangles surrounding the image. However, most crucially, we are denied the emotion of the eyes which makes this a very ambiguous piece, allowing the audience to depict it with their own connections. This highly saturated and contrasted portrait appears in some of Greiman’s other work also. Although I find it hard to work in a collage manner, I do like the effect which is created, everything has become deconstructed and disjointed but still remains comfortable. The pyramid shapes at the bottom on the piece also bring a spiritual element which seems to question our existence.

 

 

The fundamental element that stands out in this painting is the ring around the subject’s head, along with the wings. These additions give the painting connotations of Jesus Christ and his crown of thorns, raising spiritual questions towards the meaning of life. The hidden phallic symbol could also be included in these questions whilst the child-like imagery and lack of definitive lines bring innocence to the image, hiding some of its deep meaning. The ring could also be linked to Basquiat’s crown icon. The intensity and the speed of the painting could also be influenced by his intoxicating drug use and gives a feeling of struggle and suffocation.

 

Image one: Brenda Kruger, 1981, ‘You Are Not Yourself’

Image two: Cover for WET magazine, designed by April Greiman, 1979

Image three: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Untitled (Fallen Angel), 1981

Sensibility, Spirit and Meaning (Counter Culture)

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In this photograph, you can see the handmade typography on their poster. It looks like a psychedelic typeface which relates to the environmental organisation they created. Psychedelia reminds me of nature, natural, flowy and altogether a positive image. So, I think that by choosing to create their poster with this specific type really worked for them.  It gives people a feel of their organisation. Typography is so powerful that people do receive vibes from certain types. Also, the small illustration makes the whole thing more playful.

 

This second poster is again using psychedelic type. Although it is not as extreme as the first poster. It relates to the whole Earth theme once again, adding to the natural look. This one is not as neat and tidy, or as put in order. It appears to be more scattered. Although this could be to add more to the natural feel that the makers are going for. It also adds a more playful and fun feel to the posters proposal. It seems to be not a very serious poster, I am basing this just off of the type that was used. This shows again how powerful type can be.

 

 

This is a gay youth march in the 1970’s. The typography used here is very simple, not much to it. Just a plain title, and year. Does not give a whole load of information but we all know what it is. Sometimes less is more, although not much is put onto this, it gives a big message. The type that is used, is quite bold and out there. It definitely attracts attention in my opinion. It’s so neat and a strong typeface, it is powerful in itself.
This is the reason that I find typography so important. It changes the whole feel of what you want to achieve, your outcomes can turn out anyway you want it to. For example, if you want to attract attention, use bold and big out their type. If you want something fun then use a playful type, etc. there is so much to experiment and work with.
  • Anonymous (2009) The First Earth Day–Bell–Bottoms And Gas Masks Available at: https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/04/photogalleries/first-earth-day-1970-pictures/photo7.html (Accessed 28 November 2017)
  • Anonymous (2009) The Specter of Environmentalism Available at: http://archive.oah.org/special-issues/teaching/2009_06/ex3.html (Accessed 28 November 2017)
  • Anonymous (2012) 1ST ANNUAL GAY PRIDE MARCH, 1970 Available at: https://www.charentonmacerations.com/1st-annual-gay-pride-march-1970-2/ (Accessed 28 November 2017)

 

 

Technology is the mortal enemy of art

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In my opinion I agree yet disagree on this quote. I understand why some people may feel strongly about this. Some people love the fact that hand touched pieces are best, as there is a real connection with the artist and their work. The real life paint brush, pencil, or any other type of medium. “Artists today, on the other hand, operate with clicks of the mouse, video tools and digital colors, which even if they ostensibly mimic old traditional tools” – Mohamed Zaher. So what he is trying to say is digital work will only be mimics of traditional work.
Manar Abdel Maboud
On the other hand I understand why people also disagree. Why should it be the enemy? Why is it not a positive? Technology has helped art come a very long way. We are not only limited, we now have amazing digital help to create even better designs. Very precise things we can create digitally, try out many different versions of the same design in the click of a button, erase a mistake very quickly rather than restarting the whole thing. That is an advantage for artists, everyone wants things to be created quickly, and digital way is the best way for quick outcomes. Also you can still add hand made elements in to your digital work. Create some illustrations by hand, scan them in, work with those etc. It does not all solely need to be digital if you do not want it to be.
  • Zaher, M. (n.d) The Impact Of Digital Technology On Art And Artists Available at: http://www.midanmasr.com/en/article.aspx?articleID=200#
  • Aleksandr Rodchenko (n.d) Who We Are Available at: https://www.behance.net/gallery/12919695/Constructivism-Manifesto-Booklet (Accessed on 20 November 2017)

Technology is the mortal enemy of Graphic Design

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Technology plays a major role in the field of Graphic Design. The impact of technology in the field of Graphic Design is both positive and negative.

In earlier times, when technology was not evolved, the approach towards meeting the clients, getting to know about their ideas and getting the designs approved was more personal and communication based, but now since the evolution of technology the approach towards this has become more digital based though the use of text/email which has both positive and negative impacts.  The positive impact would be that the process of communicating has become much simpler, for example- if a client needs to get some designing work done by a graphic designer they can simply email/text them and they can get their work and discuss about ideas easily. It has also become easier to display your work on various websites but again if we do so the chances of plagiarism are very high. On the other hand, the negative impact would be that even though due to the easy process of communicating through the help of technology is useful but it increases the chances of mistakes, because an idea explained by the client through email/text could easily be misunderstood by the designer and vice versa. As quoted by Frank Chimero, “Good design is all about making other designers feel like idiots because that idea wasn’t theirs.” So, because of technology, there are a lot of websites which display various designs and allow us to purchase that design, these services are impacting the graphic designers because even if someone doesn’t purchase the design file, they can easily duplicate the idea of the designer by creating the exact same type of design by their own.

In a nutshell, even though there are many advantages that come with the evolution of Technology, but at the end Technology is definitely the mortal enemy of Graphic Design and various other fields.

https://pin.it/gnk3i3x5xzdhwu