GISDepartment of Global and Interdisciplinary Studies

Few images seen on walls and in public spaces are randomly created. Many are designed to grab our attention and make us want to do something, whether it be desire a car, a drink, a movie, or to share in an idea such as a political message or charity. Images always carry messages and this course explores such messages through the practice of making them.

During this course, we will learn how visual messages are conveyed through the acquisition of essential skills (e.g. use of grids, balance, rhythm, typography). We will also develop a working understanding of the impact that images have upon contemporary society. In doing so, the course aims to encourage students’ critical awareness of the surrounding visual environment.

Will be able to gain “DP 1”, “DP 2”, “DP 3”, and “DP 4”.

英語 / English

Blending theory and practice to introduce the basics of Visual Communication Design, the first part of the course looks at how and why we “read” images in different ways. The second part looks at supporting students through the process of designing a poster. To develop a contextual understanding of the subject, students also create a dedicated Instagram account for posting pictures of advertisements seen around Tokyo. Final submission comprises a final project (poster) and evidence of participation (Instagram posts). Attendance is recorded weekly using visual media (e.g. photograph). Feedback is given via dialogue and discussion of work in class.

あり / Yes

あり / Yes

授業形態/methods of teaching：対面/face to face

※各回の授業形態は予定です。教員の指示に従ってください。

1[オンライン/online]：Sight and Perception

Introducing the course and expectations.

2[対面/face to face]：Visual Cues

Looking at the many cues that the brain receives when looking at images and how to use them.

3[対面/face to face]：Visual Theories

Exploring theories associated with the act of seeing.

4[対面/face to face]：Visual Persuasion

Discussing the use of persuasion and the commonality of propaganda.

5[対面/face to face]：Visual Stereotypes

Exploring stereotypes within the contemporary visual landscape.

6[対面/face to face]：Visual Analysis

Analyzing images using Lester’s six perspectives.

7[対面/face to face]：Visual Literacy

Discussion of advertisements in Tokyo.

8[対面/face to face]：Layout

Exploring the value of different layouts in design.

9[対面/face to face]：Typography

Exploring the history and use of typefaces for design.

10[対面/face to face]：Images

Looking at ways to reproduce/scale/multiply images within designs.

11[対面/face to face]：Colour

Exploring colour as a communicative decision for design.

12[対面/face to face]：Constructive Feedback

Getting feedback on poster designs.

13[対面/face to face]：Peer Review

Making final amendments and adjustments to designs.

14[対面/face to face]：Taking Responsibility

Discussing the future of advertisements.

Students are expected to download and read assigned readings prior to lectures. Students are also expected to create a new Instagram account and post a single image taken daily (7 days x 13 weeks = 91 images). The project will require a number of hours spent outside of class in order to make the work. Preparatory study and review time for this class are 2 hours each.

Lester, Paul Martin (2014) Visual Communication: Images with Messages, Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

Additional handouts and reading materials will be will be uploaded on H'etudes or distributed in class.

Ambrose, Gavin and Harris, Paul (2011) Basics Design 01: Format, Fairchild Books.
Ambrose, Gavin and Harris, Paul (2011) Basics Design 02: Layout, 2nd Edition, Fairchild Books.
Ambrose, Gavin and Harris, Paul (2005) Basics Design 03: Typography, Fairchild Books.
Ambrose, Gavin and Harris, Paul (2006) Basics Design 04: Image, Fairchild Books.
Ambrose, Gavin and Harris, Paul (2007) Basics Design 05: Colour, Fairchild Books.
Berger, John (1977) Ways of Seeing, Penguin Books.
Frascara, Jorges (2004) Communication Design: Principles, Methods, and Practice, Allworth Press.
Triggs, Teal and Atzmon, Leslie (2017) The Graphic Design Reader, Bloomsbury.

Additional references will be provided by the instructor in class.

Participation: this applies to class-activities, assigned readings and daily posts to Instagram. More than 2 unexcused absences will result in failure of this course.

Final Project: each student must produce and exhibit one poster design (A2 size) relating to a topic chosen in class.

The final grade is based on: Participation 40% and Final Project 60%.

Changes reflect feedback and suggestions. Thank you.

Students will need a laptop, a camera, a workbook (e.g. blank sketchbook/notebook), and general stationary (e.g. pen, pencil, glue, tape, paperclips). Students will also need access to a printer and know how to use it. Paper and other basic art materials may also be requested on a weekly basis.

Being naturally creative is not a requirement for this course. However, students are expected to come to class on time, participate and show interest.

None.