Expressive uses of paper

For this last project, we have been using computer and bristol paper to create different "skins" that might look interesting with light.  Learning how to use the texture and opacity of these materials has been interesting and the classes have come up with some pretty interesting ideas.  We are now working on how to connect our panels together, which is probably going to be the toughest decision of the project, including how we attach it to the light bulb without the paper actually touching the bulb.  Here are a few photos of our first run-through of skins made of computer paper:

Here are some of my improved skins made of bristol:

One Site

Here are some 3D renditions of what our word might look like up in the computer lab...

Photo Ops

This reading describes different techniques and effects that can be achieved using a digital camera.  The digicam has revolutionized the photography world.  The topics discussed include symmetry & asymmetry, repetition, framing, close-up, continuous mode, exploration, movement, and serendipity.  One that I found very interesting was the section on framing.  It describes how you can use framing subtly in the photo to accentuate the focus, but to be sure not to draw away from the main subject of the photo.  Also, using the continuous shots by following something that is moving past or by turning in a circle can create an interesting group of images.

Word Exploration

This week we have done different activities with our selected word.  First we had to physically cut and paste the word to create specific effects to represent the meaning.  Then we got to use Illustrator to do some more exploration activities.  I learned a few neat tools and tricks in the program to create interesting effects.  For next week we are going even further and adding color to our three favorite designs.

What Language Looks Like

For the beginning of this project, I chose the word withdraw.  The dictionary definitions of this word are as follows:
withdraw
     -verb (used with object)

1. to draw back, away, or aside; take back; remove:  She withdrew her hand from his.  He withdrew his savings from the bank.
2. to retract or recall:  to withdraw an untrue charge.
3. to cause (a person) to undergo withdrawal from addiction to a substance.

      -verb (used without object)

1. to go or move back, away, or aside; retire; retreat:  to withdraw from the room.
2. to remove oneself from some activity, competition, etc.:  He withdrew before I could nominate him.
3. to cease using or consuming an addictive narcotic (fol. by from):  to withdraw from heroin.
4. Parliamentary Procedure; to remove an amendment, motion, etc., from consideration.

Understanding Comics

In reading Understanding Comics, I realized that a lot more goes into making a comic than meets the eye.  It is an art form all of it's own and has grown more in depth throughout the years just like any other type of art.
Some main points discussed include:

• Sight can transfer to all of the senses; how a picture can express and evoke different emotions
• The use of icons to represent things
• The more simple an image is, the more people it relates to
• Humans see ourselves in everything
• Certain symbols have been universally accepted to represent something specific

Make it Better! Final Product

In our group of Jonah, Drue, Keene and I, we decided to improve the traditional can opener.  There were many issues, and we addressed as many of them as we could and I believe we did an exceptional job making a can opener more appealing to the masses.  Here are some images of our process map and the final prototype.

Make it Better! Design for 5 bucks

The goal of this project was to pick a poorly designed object and make it better.  My object I chose was a sink stopper.  I sketched a couple of different ideas on how it could be better and asked quite a few people about their thoughts on the product.  Many don't use them, but agreed that it was poorly designed just by looking at it.

Interviews

Sink Stopper Questions:


1.  Do you use a sink stopper?
2.  Do you ever have a problem with water leaking out?
3.  Is the grip an issue?
4.  Does it get rusted/damaged after too much use?
5.  What other issues have you encountered/would like to change?

Dolores Hollar
1.  Yes
2.  Sometimes, on one side of the sink it leaks but the other side doesn't.
3.  Yes, it's hard to get out and one time the middle part broke and the rest was stuck in the sink.
4.  Not rusted, but it gets dirty easily if it's not cleaned.
5.  Make a better handle so it's easier to use.

Visual Writing

The Writer's Toolbox discusses different forms of creative writing in order to get ideas on paper.  This includes mind maps, concept maps, freewriting, brainwriting, and word lists.
Mind maps - starting with one word or object, related words are written around it and then words that are related to those are then written, and so on.  This shows potential connections between seemingly unrelated ideas which helps with the creative process.
Concept maps - again starting with one word, this map shows more of how the brain makes connections between different ideas.  It shows more of conceptual relationships and systems thinking.
Freewriting - a constant flow of thought unfiltered.  This is private writing, so you don't have to worry about it being seen by other, but it shows some hidden ideas by constantly writing what you are thinking.
Brainwriting - much like brainstorming, but is better for those who are quiet.  A basic template is used to generate ideas and is then discussed with the group.
Word lists - start off with a single word, then write down words that are in any way related.  These could be descriptive, metaphoric, or opposites.  Selecting a few words that stand out and further exploring them can greatly expand the design process.

IDEO Deep Dive video

In the video about IDEO redesigning a shopping cart in 5 days, it was really interesting to go inside of the design process of a major company.  It showed that the "corporate ladder" isn't the most efficient way to get things done in the workplace.  The best way to get creative ideas flowing is a very relaxed atmosphere where people are having fun and there are no positional statuses.  Also, being given restrictions or certain problems to work on is a kind of guideline and should be used to its full extent instead of thinking of it as a hindrance.

Elements and principles of design, click here.