PPP1: Study Task 8- 'If You Were A...'

From the 10 overall statements we had to make for our Study Task, we had to print them and cut them out to A5 size for the session.

Illustrator Set Up For Print

Cut Out Images and Text

Within the session, we had to separate the image from the text. Then we had to get into our Groups for the 'Communication is a Virus' brief and from within that into pairs. I got into a pair with Caitlin. The pairs had to swap images with another group of pairs and, from the images, agree on 5 bullets points or a 50 word statement each for the personality and the professionalism.

1st Person:

Person 1 Professional Image Choices

Professional:

1. Use of Image Manipulation and Photoshop for Bright Colour
2. Works using Grid and Structure
3. May want to go into Brand and Identity as a specialism
4. Likes to experiment with type, composition, layout and imagery
5. Likes to work with vibrant colour schemes

Person 1 Personal Image Choices

Personal:

1. Has trouble with time-keeping or time management
2. Fashion- conscious into popular brands. Perhaps has a footwear collection.
3. Strong, close-knit family bond with friends and relatives
4. Strong personality- uses to decorate and document aspects of their life
5. Likes to keep up-to-date with design. Likes contemporary, current design 

2nd Person:

Person 2 Professional Image Choices

Professional:

1. Use os structured aesthetics and simple concepts
2. Limited Colour Schemes (Maximum of 2-3 colours)
3. Maybe wants to go into Editorial and Publication
4. Likes to work by digital means for type and image
5. Focused audience communication on instruction and informing content

Person 2 Personality Image Choices

Personal:

1. Likes Fantasy (Lord of the Rings fan) and other mystical genres
2. Drinks a lot of water- maybe health conscious
3. Finds solace in Countryside visits and long walks
4. Accepting and sociable person. Likes to get to know people and make friends
5. Likes embarrassing pop music (golden oldies!)

We then had to report back on our assessments based on the images to our group members. The first Person was Rinesh and we got most of his points correct. We got one pair of images in the wrong groups but our reasoning was pretty relevant to him. The second person was Ellen whose all image sets and reasoning was all spot on.

When reporting back on my images, the pair who had mine were very strong on my personality and gave the same reasoning that I had. There were a few things that weren't right for my practise, however, I had based my answers on the future and where I am now so it was understandable that they found it harder. Regardless, there reasoning was fitting to my practise so they did well. 

Associative Communication

We went onto discussing about how we should view ourselves as a Commodity or a Product that someone wants to have or use. This would mean you would be working smart as well as working hard to get yourself out there into industry.

By associating ourselves with something that is already there, others can relate to us in this way and see how we want others to perceive ourselves. This is seen as Associative Communication and another way of using Symbiotic.

Study Task:

We were given a sheet with 11 questions on which we have to answer using the personal and professional identities that we have been looking into, equating into 22 answers. For each response, we need to find design- based information that clearly illustrates what you mean.

1. If you were a book, what would your subject be and who would read you?

Personal: If I was a book, I would be a slightly dog-warred self-help paper back book that would be lovingly read by someone over and over again like a long lost friend. I would want to use the contents of the book to help someone or make someone feel better.

"Book of Art" (2012- 2013) by Issac G. Salazar

Salazar, I. G.  (2012- 2013) "Book of Art" [Internet] Available from http://www.isaacgsalazar.com/#/home (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The use of a positive typographic message that is used to produce the contents of the slightly old novels highlights how I would want to effect someone with a positive message. The fact that the words have been produced by folding the corners references the habit of folding your place in the book which emphasises what happens to well loved and well used books, making good use of this to produce some unexpected ornament.

Professional: If I was a book, I would be a newly published coming- of- age novel, the first published from an up- and- coming author who is starting their career. The author would be nervous about making an impact with their novel so they would present it in a clever and innovative packaging so they gain a large audience and following.

"Jacket and Bookmark" (2010) by Icoeye

Icoeye (2010) "Jacket and Bookmark" [Internet] Available from http://www.icoeye.com/blog/?p=125 (Accessed 16th March 2013) 

The book cover sleeves that have been produced use a vertical image from the novels that protrude outwards to form a bookmark as well. This variation into the book cover's possibilities and purpose as well as giving a fun and friendly visual makes the necessary impact on the readers imagination to wonder what happens in the story.

2. If you were a package, what would you contain and who would open you?

Personal: If I was a package, I would be an embossed, printed takeaway pizza box that would contain a homemade, fresh out of the oven vegetable supreme pizza which would be opened by hungry vegetarians who also like pizza.

"Dominoes Handmade Pan Pizza" (2012) by CP+B

CP+B (2012) "Dominoes Handmade Pan Pizza" [Weblog] 17th October The Dieline Available from http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2012/10/17/dominos-handmade-pan-pizza.html (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The printed packaging contains a warm product which I think reflects my personality as someone who is easy going and warm inside who aims to bring people comfort. Also, I am pescetarian so I wouldn't have meat on a pizza.

Professional: If I was a package, I would contain the blueprints of an invention that was yet to be discovered that would be held within a padlocked briefcase surrounded by bodyguards. It would be opened by some unexpected passer-by who would unleash it upon the world.

"G3 Carbon Fibre Briefcase" (2007) by Nikola Knezevic Industrial Design

Nikola Knezevic Industrial Design (2007) "G3 Carbon Fibre Briefcase" [Internet] Available from http://www.nikoladesign.com/portfolio.html (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This briefcase is sophisticated and very professional in its appearance which reflects my professionalism and approach to producing work. The fact that it can be shut and locked shows the importance of the contents of the packaging and the fact it is within a briefcase highlights the professionalism within my working practise.

3. If you were a shop, what would you sell and who would buy from it?

Personal: If I was a shop, I would sell individual, delicious sweets and unique confectionary within a modern sweet shop, decorated with environmental graphics. They would be bought by culinary connoisseurs who have a good palette and can tell quality from the taste of the chocolate.

"Cioccolato" (2012) by Savvy Studio
Savvy Studio (2012) "Cioccolato" [Weblog] 10th January The Behance Network Available from http://www.behance.net/gallery/CIOCCOLATO/2839981 (Accessed 20th December 2012)

The modern yet futuristic feel of the interior gives the shop an eclectic look, which reflects on the product by making it seem out there and different. As a person, I eat a lot of chocolate and think that it would be amazing to have a chocolate shop of my own.

Professional: If I was a shop, I would be a stationary shop that sold sketchpads and supplies as well as electronic- based media and have a quality print service. It would be a specialist supplier aimed at those within the industry, professionals and students.

"Stationary Shop" (2012) by Puntdefuga

Puntdefuga (2012) "Stationary Shop" [Weblog] 26th July The Behance Network Available from http://www.behance.net/gallery/Stationery-shop/4561237 (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The traditional yet orderly approach to this stationary shop fits my professional side perfectly as I like everything in order and in precise condition which is reflected in the layout and presentation of the shops interior.

4. If you were a poster, what would you promote and to whom?

Personal: If I was a poster, I would promote a reasonably-priced indoor, one day alternative music festival that would have an indoor market and food court. It would target music-goers but specifically young people as the prices would be targeted at being inexpensive so it wouldn't cost all of the student loan.

"Typography Gig Poster/ Flyer" by Ziarographics

Ziarographics "Typography Gig Poster/ Flyer" [Internet] Available from http://www.ziarographics.com/portfolio/typography-gig-poster/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The typography aspect of a festival poster is something that you can't get away from but the fact that the posters have a visual identity that would work alongside other more established, iconic posters means that it would perhaps be seen as something more underground and unexpected. This is relevant due to the imagery as well as the design choices of using murky colours and type to get a disjointed feel.

Professional: If I was a poster, I would promote a visiting lecturer talk to happen at an educational facility which would target designers of all levels to go along to the talk.

"Bad Typography Is Everywhere/ Good Typography Is Invisible"(2008) by Craig Ward

Ward, C. (2008) "Bad Typography Is Everywhere/ Good Typography Is Invisible" [Internet] Available from http://www.monoscope.com/2008/12/craig_ward_bad_typography_is_e.html (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This poster goes beyond being a promotional poster for a visiting lecturer but it stands on it's own as a very successful piece of graphic design due to the visual imagery, presentation and irony of the poster. It outlasts the actual talk itself meaning that it is a constant and visual reminder of the message of the visit.

5. If you were a brand, what would be your values be and where would you show it?

Personal: If I was a brand, my values would be for the designers to have creative control and for their to be equality amongst the workers. I would have the company being of a humble, small yet tight knit scale which would be true to itself in regards to the products it produced. The ethics of the brand would come first.

"Rat City Beer Co." by Commoner, Inc.

Commoner, Inc. "Rat City Beer Co." [Internet] Available from http://portfolio.commonerinc.com/#/ratcity/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The traditional ethics of honesty and hard-work is mirrored in the style used by Commoner, Inc. with even there name stating what they stand for. The fact that this is an independent, local brewery that they have created a homely feel for suggests a closeness of being independent in themselves and supporting similar ethics which would create a nice atmosphere to work in.

Professional: If I was a brand, I would become a commercially successful brand with values being for good quality design and high-end opulent products. This would be important so that the customers knew they were getting quality work which would strengthen the reputation of the brand.

"Tiffany & Co." by Pentagram

Pentagram "Tiffany & Co." [Internet] Available from http://www.pentagram.com/work/#/all/luxury/newest/298/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

Tiffany & Co are a brand world renown for their luxury and exclusivity, so it only makes sense that a design studio like Pentagram, renown for their reputation as being one of the best design agencies in the world, designed the logo type and packaging which suggests indulgence and quality. This reputation for quality, precision and production is the kind of reputation that I would want reflecting in my work and where I would work.

6. If you were an exhibition, what would you show and where would you show it?

Personal: If I was an exhibition, I would be a travelling pop-up exhibition showing iconic, ground-breaking film posters which would be available for all to view at local cinemas.

"Mondo Exhibiton Curated by Olly Moss" (2012) by Olly Moss

Mondo (2012) "Mondo Exhibition Curated by Olly Moss"[Internet] Available from http://thoughtbubblefestival.com/mondo-exhibition/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The simplicity alongside the integrated imagery makes for Moss' success regarding film posters. The fact that he took part in curating alongside showcasing his posters shows his inclusion into making it a successful show, plus, the fact that he has included series and sets of posters makes it more interesting and fulfilling.

Professional: If I was an exhibition, I would be a design exhibition that would be solely based on student/ graduate work which would target professionals, studios and agencies in order to aid employment and work placements as well as promote up-and-coming designers. It would be shown in a large studio space in a high-rise building in the capital city. 

"BFA Exhibition Invitation" (2012) by Jordan Alessi

Alessi, J. (2012) "BFA Exhibition Invitation" [Internet] Available from http://cargocollective.com/jordanalessi/BFA-Exhibition-Invitation (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The sophisticated use of typography and understanding of layout adds a quality to the occasion therefore making the event seem more professional and high class. This impression would target professionals as it gives a good expectation of the standard of work that would be produced which reflects the high standard that I want to produce and the impression I want to give to prospective professionals.

7. If you were a leaflet, what information would you contain and who would read it?

Personal: If I was a leaflet, I would be a flyer for a gig with information based around the band itself, the venue, date and time that the venue doors would open. They would be given out to fans to read so they would know where and when the gig was but also, so they can promote it themselves.

"Fall Out Boy" (2006) by Brian Ewing

Ewing, B. (2006) "Fall Out Boy" [Internet] Available from http://www.brianewing.com/portfolio/Rock-Posters/fall-out-boy (Accessed 16th March 2013)

Ewing is influenced by the music and culture that he is surrounded by which comes across in his screen-printed posters, leaflets and flyers that promote alternative bands. I am heavily influenced by what I listen to which means that I can identify with Ewing's style and use of classic imagery.

Professional: If I was a leaflet, I would be a how-to information leaflet on 'How to use Adobe Software', written in an easy-to-understand format and tone of voice which would be given to and read by people who have never used software before.

"Brochure & Leaflet Mock Up" by Graphicriver

Graphicriver "Brochure & Leaflet Mock Up" [Internet] Available from http://graphicriver.net/item/brochure-leaflet-mockup-photoshop/123174 (Accessed 16th March 2013)

The fact that the mock-ups demonstrate how you can use different layouts, how you can use Photoshop to make professional looking work and how you can use it to your advantage highlights the importance of learning the software and how useful a concept like this would be.

8. If you were a sign, what would you show, to whom and where?

Personal: If I was a sign, I would be a traditional, slightly dusty Americana road sign on a highway showing the route number to motorists on a road trip or to tourists who are travelling around America.

"Road Sign Nevada" (2012) by Ralf Herrmann

Herrmann, R. (2012) "'The Design of a Signage Typeface"[Weblog] 19th April ilovetypography Available from http://ilovetypography.com/2012/04/19/the-design-of-a-signage-typeface/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This signage is very relevant in regards to my love of Americana and the culture surrounding America. It also highlights my aim in life, to travel and get to America and be able to sample some of this life myself.

Professional: If I was a sign, I would be a Public Information pictogram style sign with simple yet effective imagery and little yet specific wording. My signs would be available everywhere in public places on a large scale which would be used by a global audience.

"Airport Signage" (2012) by Tom Nulens

Nulens, T. (2012) "Airport Signage" [Weblog] 22nd March The Behance Network Available from http://www.behance.net/gallery/Airport-signage/3447813 (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This pictogram signs are instantly recognisable as to their message straight away and would be on a global scale, highlighting the visual language that is important throughout the world. The fact that they are used everyday and are an aid to helping people communicate means that they are significant towards my professional practise.

9. If you were an app, what would you do and who would use you?

Personal: If I was an App, I would be an energetic, fun game that would go from humble beginnings to a viral sensation overnight. I would entertain the public in boring situations and I would be used by people who have access to a smartphone.

"Temple Run" (2011) by Imangi Studios

Imangi Studios (2011) "Temple Run" [App] Available from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/temple-run/id420009108?mt=8 (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This continuous, freedom- based game is addictive and entertaining, simple to use and doesn't take a lot of skill which is why it is so successful. As a person, I'd like to find that I was quite fun to be around and entertaining while at the same time, I have an addictive personality in the sense that once I start something, I'm hooked.

Professional: If I was an App, I would be designed to help people remember things they need to do. I could be used by anybody but particularly older people or people who have mental illness, which means that I would have a simple design and easy function.

"Remember The Milk" (2011) by Remember The Milk

Remember The Milk (2011) "Remember The Milk" [Internet] Available from http://blog.rememberthemilk.com/2011/05/introducing-remember-the-milk-for-ipad/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This app is simple, easy to use and navigate as it keeps the function basic yet effective. The app allows for separate lists and sections so that they are all in order as well as including notes for additional considerations to take into account. The fact that they would be helpful and effective as well as purposive reflects my professional practise. 

10. If you were a blog, what would you be about and who would follow you?

Personal: If I was a Blog, I would be a visual diary full of photos where I would record aspects of my life as well as record areas of my life. I think it would be inclusive of people from all walks of life from all of the world who would be able to gain an insight into how I live as well as allow me to leave a diary for future generations to look at.

"Life & Travels" (2002-2013) by Mr. Cup

Mr. Cup (2002- 2013) "Life & Travels" [Weblog] Graphic Exchange: The Blog of Mr.Cup Available from http://www.mr-cup.com/blog/category/life-and-travels.html (Accessed 16th March 2013)

Mr.Cup records his life through photographs he takes on his travels when working as a design or of places of interest or significance to him, such as a friends home. This is inclusive of all his followers as he can show them what goes into his work and what influences him from his personal life and surroundings.

Professional: If I was a blog, I would be an informative specific design blog that would focus on a specialist area which would be either Brand and Identity or Product and Packaging. I would be followed by people who were enthusiasts of Packaging and Brand Design as it is quite a specific target audience subject.

"Lovely Package" (2008-2013) by Lovely Empire

Lovely Empire (2008-2013) "Lovely Package" [Weblog] Lovely Package Available from http://lovelypackage.com/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This blog is sparse in ornament yet direct and efficient in its display of information which makes it appeal to my professional side. It is easy to navigate with access to archive blog posts which have been ordered in date as well as category of post for quick access. The promotional photography used to show the products and packaging highlights the distinct quality of the work on show which links to my professional intention within my work.

11. If you were an event, what would it be and how would you promote it?

Personal: If I was an event, I would be an extravagant, over-the-top Mad Hatters Tea Party which I would promote through social networking and media, campaigning to encourage people to hold their own parties as well.

"Mad Hatter's Tea Party"(2012) by Lyndsey Loves

Loves, L. (2012) "Mad Hatter's Tea Party" [Weblog] 9th April Wordpress Available from http://handcraftedblog.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/mad-hatters-tea-party/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This extravagant and visceral production into making the event with the extraordinary detail shows the eye-catching and sometimes overwhelming amounts of colour and pattern that surrounds the tea party yet it is this eclectic, weird miss-mash of aesthetics that makes it successful in its intention.

Professional: If I was an event, I would be the Main Event on a Wrestling Pay-Per-View as the underdog going against the champion for the title and winning. It would be promoted via word of mouth and progress rapidly, turning into a widespread media, television and viral campaign.

"World Wrestling Federation" (2012) by Damien Weighill

Weighill, D. (2012) "World Wrestling Federation" [Internet] Available from http://damienweighill.com/2012/01/word-wrestling-federation-page-match/ (Accessed 16th March 2013)

This printed poster in an illustration style is in keeping with the traditional old school posters for wrestling matches when they first started. This highlights the word of mouth aspect as it would be on a small scale before becoming larger and larger, upgrading to other forms of promotion. The main event would dominate the poster with photographs of the participants opposing each other to highlight the animosity between the fighters.