Design Principles : TASK 3 - Design

4.3.2024 - 24.3.2024 / Week 5-7
Angel Tan Xin Kei / 0356117
Design Principles GCD60804/ Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
TASK 3 - Design


Module Information Booklet

Submissions Requirements:
  • Recap of Task 3 Brief
  • Visual References
  • 3 - 5 Idea Sketches ( digital or manual )
  • Final Artwork in A4 size ( jpeg format)
  • Rationale in about 150-300 words explaining/defending the decisions made in your design, the meaning/purpose of the design and the design principles that are found in the design
  • Feedback from Mr. Zeon

Lectures
All lectures refer to Task 1

Design

Visual Research:

I have conduct research of embodying UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) with vibrant hues, depicting active lifestyles, serene nature scenes, and medical symbols. As most of the Health and Well-being poster impose diverse representation and include empowering quotes, informative infographics, and affirmations. Showcase community support and a vision for a healthier future, inspiring viewers to prioritize personal and collective wellness.

Inspiration #1
Figure 1.1 Fear of Gluten

References:
    Dore, A. (2019). Fear of Gluten. Available at: https://www.antoinedore.com/client-work#/fear-of-    gluten/

Inspiration #2
Figure 1.2 Blood Donation WHO Poster
References:
   World Health Organization, (2023). World Blood Donation Day.World Health Organization. Available at:

Inspiration #3
Figure 1.3 Malaria

References:
    Pearson, L. (2013). Malaria, It's Nice That. Available at: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/35888128255664654/

Ideation Sketches:
Sketch 1. Heart - to - Heart
After doing research, I discovered that heart diseases is the top-notch diseases that world-wide faced.My main idea is to position the heart sits at the core of the artwork, surrounded by an intricate puzzle( smaller scale of people). Each small piece linked up to the heart ( continuation) signifies a vital aspect of heart health, from individual regular exercise to medical check-ups, emergency operations and blood donations. Diverse medical personnel and individuals engage in activities promoting cardiac well-being, emphasizing collaboration and unity in the fight against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). A blue/green and red color palette underscores a dynamic composition draws the viewer's gaze towards the central heart. This artwork mainly to advocate for preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices. Through this art, a profound message that I hope to convey is as the puzzle pieces interlock seamlessly, they reflect the actions necessary to preserve the beating heart at the center.

This sketch effectively incorporates three key design principles:
  • Emphasis: employed to underscore the significance of the heart as the central element. 
  • Continuation: in terms of puzzles, is utilized to create visual interest and highlight important details of how to lead a healthy lifestyle and efforts of medical personnel to preserve patients' heart
  • Scale and Proportion: evidenced by the deliberate enlargement of the heart compared to the surrounding medical personnel, emphasizing its paramount importance within the composition.
Sketch 2 Fight against All
In this artwork, the central concept revolves around the relentless battle waged by medical personnel against the myriad bacteria and viruses present in worldwide such as influenza, malaria, Ebola and etc. The depiction of bacteria on top right in the form of a globe symbolizes the omnipresence of these microscopic organisms across the globe, emphasizing the pervasive nature of infectious diseases. Surrounding this symbolic representation are the courageous figures of healthcare workers, depicted in various roles and settings, symbolizing their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in combating these threats to public health. Through their collective expertise, determination, and resilience, these individuals stand as guardians against the invisible but ever-present menace of pathogens, striving to safeguard communities and uphold the sanctity of human health on a global scale.

This sketch integrates three fundamental design principles:  
  • Hierarchy: The composition is arranged to establish a clear order of importance, guiding the viewer's eye message are positioned prominently, while secondary elements are strategically placed to support and enhance the primary focal points 
  • Movement: depicted struggle between medical personnel and disease-causing bacteria, creates visual tension and intrigue. The use of contrasting elements, such as bold colors or dramatic lighting, further enhances the overall impact of the composition, captivating the viewer's attention and heightening the emotional resonance of the imagery. 
  • Emphasis: central focus on medical personnel actively engaging in combat with disease-causing bacteria serves as a powerful visual anchor

Sketch 3

In this artwork, the primary theme revolves around the exploration of the human circulatory system, where a doctor driving a submarine navigating through the intricate network of blood vessels. The repetition of red blood cells enveloping the submarine reinforces the immersive nature of this journey within the bloodstream.My idea expressed is the doctor  serves as a vigilant guardian conducts inspections, ensuring the health and vitality of each red blood cell encountered along the way, monitoring for any anomalies or irregularities that may arise.This portrayal not only highlights the remarkable complexity of the human circulatory system but also underscores the crucial role of medical professionals in safeguarding and the dedication of those committed to its care and well-being.

Indeed the last sketch demonstrates a thoughtful integration of several design principles:
  • Repetition: The consistent depiction of red blood cells throughout blood vessels surrounding the submarine, reinforces the theme of the circulatory system
  • Scale and Proportion: The exaggeration of the submarine's size relative to the blood vessels serves effectively captures attention and underscores the significance of the vessel within the composition.
  • Negative Space: The strategic use of negative space, particularly the contrast between the red-colored background and the black space surrounding the relatively small submarine
Progressions of artwork: 
After discussing with Mr. Zeon, I chose the first artwork because strong resonance and left a lasting impression after lecturer seen it. Also, it very related UNSDG highlighting the universal challenges faced ultimately recognize their role in the puzzle of heart health, understanding that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger picture of cardiovascular wellness.

My First Attempt on Digitisation on Adobe Illustration was kind of failed as it doesn't correlated to my sketch as I have added elements that does not link up with the heart: 
Figure 3.1 First Attempt Failed

My second attempt at outlining the heart has been more thorough, with added detail and a creative touch. I opted to include cute eyes to symbolize a healthy heart and made its shape slightly rounder for added appeal.
Figure 3.2 Second Attempt on Sketch

Following that, I proceeded to draw the puzzle pieces in accordance with the shape of the heart, ensuring they fit seamlessly around its contours.
Figure 3.3 Drawing the Small Pieces of Puzzles

After shaping the puzzle around the heart, I drew key elements: medical personnel, exercisers, and blood donors. These symbolize collaborative efforts in promoting heart health.
Figure 3.4 Sketching of the surronding elements

Then, I added gradients to enhance vibrancy and depth, bringing life to the artwork.
Figure 3.5 Input the gradient on every layers

Additionally, I decided to utilise the images of neurons in the background using the "repeat in grid" and "expand" features. This added texture and complexity, further enhancing the visual appeal of the artwork.

Figure 3.6 Background adjustment

Figure 3.7 Background adjustment

Figure 3.8 Background adjustment
Figure 3.9 After inputting the background

Then, I also utilised the intertwine features on the blood vessels of red and blue to make it more realistic.
Figure 3.10 Before Intertwine

Figure 3.11 After Intertwine

Following that, I colored the puzzles with shades of pink and outlined them with red strokes. To create a subtle effect, I adjusted the opacity to 60 percent, imparting a soft and inviting feel to the overall composition.
Figure 3.11 After Intertwine

Lastly, drawing from techniques learned in my previous course on illustration visual narrative, I applied a grain texture to the artwork. This addition made the piece looks more like an editorial and science magazine vibe.
Figure 3.12  Applying Texture Effect

Figure 3.13 Comparison between Effect and Without Effect


Adjustment the Artwork with Golden Ratio & Rules of Third :
Figure 3.14 Alignment Artwork with Gold Ratio

Figure 3.14 Alignment With Rule of Thirds


Final Artwork:

Design Principles:
  • Emphasis 
  • Continuation
  • Scale and Proportion
Figure 4.1 Final Artwork - Heart to Heart

Figure 4.2 Final Artwork in jpg - Heart to Heart 

Figure 4.2 Final Artwork in pdf - Heart to Heart 

Rationale:
I named my artwork "Heart-to-Heart" embodies a visual exploration of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) - Good Health and Well-being, focusing on combating heart diseases, which rank among the world's top health challenges.   

Central to the piece is the heart, symbolizing the emphasis on cardiovascular health. This heart serves as a large puzzle, surrounded by small individuals and medical personnel (scale and proportion) diligently engaged in prevention measures and treatment such as exercising, medical check-up, blood donating and etc.    

Continuation is evident as each figure seamlessly connects to the heart, illustrating the connection of actions towards heart wellness. The background, adorned in contrast between green, represents vitality and growth with red heart. Within this backdrop, the neurons symbolizes the nature of human biology and the importance of our DNA in health endeavors. Through this artwork, I aim to convey the message that daily life effort is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Each figure and element (small puzzles) plays a vital role in the broader narrative of cardiovascular health, build up the significance of individual actions in the pursuit of well-being.  (200 words)


Further Reading
Ebook:
Kleon, A. (2012). Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative. New York: Workman Publishing Company. Available at:
I did not actually finished this book but there are first few chapters that I have read through:

1. Steal Like an Artist:
Embrace inspiration from diverse sources, remix ideas, and recognize the value of influence in creativity. Allow ourselves to be inspired by the work of others and transform it into something original and unique to you.  
2. Don’t Wait Until You Know Who You Are to Get Started:    
Start creating now, even if we are uncertain of your identity or direction. Experimentation leads to self-discovery and growth, and action precedes clarity. Begin before you feel ready and let your creative journey unfold organically.  

3. Write the Book You Want to Read:  
Create content that resonates with you personally and addresses topics you're passionate about. Your unique perspective adds value to your work, so focus on producing the content you wish existed and that aligns with your interests and values.  
4. Use Our Hands:    
Engage in tactile activities to stimulate creativity and foster a deeper connection to your craft. Incorporate hands-on work alongside digital technologies, as the physical act of creating with your hands can lead to new ideas and insights.Pursue interests outside of main creative endeavor to fuel inspiration and provide a break from routine. Side projects and hobbies contribute to a well-rounded creative practice and allow for exploration and experimentation in different areas.  
5.Creativity Is Subtraction:      
Simplify and streamline your creative process by eliminating distractions and unnecessary elements. Focus on the essentials to enhance clarity and impact, as creativity often thrives in simplicity. By subtracting the non-essential, we can amplify the essence of work.

Feedback
Week 6
Mr. Zeon commented on my sketches, acknowledging the design principles and adhering (UNSDGs) quality.In order to enhance the visual clarity, by converting them to black and white to optimize better composition and structure. He expressed that overall quite satisfied. 

Week 7
As I have alternated certains elements in the artwork and the way my artwork expressed wasn't in a really detailed presentation, thus Mr. Zeon commented that he liked my previous sketch more and should have followed in sense of composition, also lack of progress in blog. I admitted that my artwork quite perfunctory then I listened to Mr Zeon advice that kind of redrawn my artwork to how my sketches depicted also added the process and techniques that I have utilised, then now I am satisfied with it.

Reflection
Experience 
Throughout this task, I searched into Pinterest to gather insights from health posters, aiming to draw inspiration for my artwork. Following this, I conducted research on prevalent global diseases to further inform my creative process. Applying fundamental design principles to my sketches proved pivotal in refining the composition. Reflecting on my prior learning in Adobe Illustrator, I harnessed digital tools to craft and enhance my artwork, ensuring precision and aesthetic appeal. Notably, I revisited the rules of thirds and the golden ratio to harmonize the elements, achieving a balanced composition.  

Observations
Throughout this endeavor, I recognized the important role of design principles in shaping the effectiveness of visual communication. Observing the impact of applying these principles firsthand, I gained a deeper understanding in the art of sketching. In exploring the intersection of artwork and advocacy, I find that a lot of people trying to convey messages through art piece. That is why our creations can serve as potent instruments for promoting UN Sustainable Development Goal.

Findings
By conveying messages of disease prevention, healthy lifestyles, and community engagement, artwork fosters awareness and action towards advancing global health objectives. Moreover, by inspiring individuals to prioritize their well-being and supporting initiatives that address healthcare disparities, our artwork becomes a catalyst for positive change, aligning with the overarching goals of SDG 3. Through creativity and visual storytelling, we can amplify the message of health equity and collective responsibility, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable world.


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