Georgia Bockos

Students are challenged on multiple levels in this advanced design course as they explore both practical and experimental solutions to visualizing language and communicating through typography. Building on skills acquired at the intermediate level, complex possibilities are thoughtfully examined and thoroughly investigated through intensive coursework. Students develop a heightened awareness of the nuanced role typography plays in communication, leaving them with a greater understanding of the visual impact ¿ and multidimensional aspects ¿ of language. Work is assessed on a weekly basis in group reviews, one-on-one discussions with instructor, and through individual analysis.

Students should expect to engage in additional research and/or specific readings as needed or requested by the instructor. Work is developed through extensive iteration around a variety of topics where content may be supplied and/or self-directed.

Students complete 3¿4 type-driven projects that emphasize the importance of process in the development and refinement of typography, as well as the ability to verbally present ideas and discuss developing work.

In this course students further develop their ability to undertake complex design problems involving typography and imagery to create meaningful solutions. Emphasized is the development of a point of view through a professional lens. It is the culmination of the beginning graphic design and intermediate graphic design course thread by taking a deeper exploration of visual communication design through the creation of systems, interventions, and speculations.

In this course, students will be exposed to the work of contemporary print and digital designers and studios such as Second Story, Studio A and Appetite Engineers. Readings, lectures and course work will address the role of applicable design theory and methodologies to create, develop and articulate a concept based on extensive research and strategic thinking for clear communication objectives

Coursework will vary as determined by the instructor, but will comprise a minimum of two projects. Basic parameters will be established by the instructor with final outcomes resulting in fully functional digital interactions and/or printed and possibly bound experiences. Assigned projects are user-centered, come with constraints, and have targeted audiences. Outcomes are open-ended physical experiences or digital interactions. Professional practice components are addressed, including making visual audits, writing project briefs, crafting strategies, presenting concepts, and thoroughly developing visual iterations and refinements.