Illustration and Visual Narrative - Project 1/Exe 2: Illustrated Typeface

28/4/2023 - 19/5/2023 (Week4 - Week7)
Teoh Gim Khoon (0361563)
Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Illustration and Visual Narrative
Exe 2: Illustrated Typography

LECTURES

Week 4

Fig. 1.0  MyTiger Instruction

Lecture - Ms. Anis
During our recent class session, we were provided with details regarding Exercise 2, which will involve integrating illustrations with corresponding words to enhance the overall impact. Additionally, we were also introduced to the Maybank Foundation MyTIGER Values Art Competition 2023, which requires us to conduct in-depth research on 12 SDG goals.

Fig. 1.1 Pencil Tool (Video Tutorial)

Tutorial - Mr. Hafiz
Week 4 lesson covered the usage of the pencil tool, shaper tool, and width tool, which will be applied in our Exercise 2 assessment. These tools are essential for creating and manipulating shapes and lines in artwork. We will learn how to use the pencil tool for freehand drawing and sketching, the shaper tool for combining and dividing shapes, and the width tool for adjusting the thickness of strokes at different points.

Week 5
Fig. 1.2  3D Rainbow (Video Tutorial)

Fig. 1.3 3D Sushi (Video Tutorial)

Tutorial - Mr. Hafiz
During week 5, our lecturer provided us with a tutorial on the application of two essential tools in Adobe Illustrator: the 3D effect tool and the intertwine tool. These powerful features allow us to create stunning three-dimensional visuals and captivating intertwined designs. By mastering these tools, we can unlock a whole new realm of creativity toward our Exe 2 assessment.


INSTRUCTION




EXERCISE 2

Exe 2: Illustrated Typeface
Pictionary Generator
To kick off the task, we were assigned to browse the Pictionary generator website with the aim of getting two specific words for our typography project. The chance results of this search gave me the words "skateboard" and "braid".
Fig. 2.1 Pictionary word

Research
After picking up the words "skateboard" and "braids," I started exploring design ideas on platforms like Pinterest. I took a close look at the various elements and styles that symbolize the essence of skateboarding and braids. After an extensive research effort, I've collated my findings into a comprehensive mood board that serves as a visual guide that encapsulates the ideal direction and aesthetic I intend to pursue for a design project.
Fig. 2.2 Moodboard

Inspired by my research, a brilliant idea took shape in my mind. To represent the word "skateboard," I envisioned utilizing a street-style font that embodies the urban and edgy nature of skateboarding. Taking it a step further, I decided to transform the text into a three-dimensional form and cleverly manipulate it to wrap around the contours of a skateboard, creating a visually captivating composition.

On the other hand, for the word "braid," I envisaged crafting an intricate and artistic braid illustration. This illustration would showcase the interweaving strands of the braid, symbolizing its elegance and complexity. To enhance the impact, I planned to apply an intertwine effect over the typography, merging the visual elements seamlessly and adding a touch of dynamism to the overall design.

Sketches
Next, let's dive into the sketching phase. I have both a draft sketch and a digital sketch available. In the draft sketch, I explored various design options for the text, including wrapping the font around the shape of a skateboard, creating a 3D font design, and experimenting with different font styles. In addition to the draft sketch, I also ventured into the digital realm, where I focused on creating an intertwine effect for the braid illustration.

Fig. 2.3 Draft Sketch


Fig. 2.4 Digital Sketch

Digital design process
To commence, my quest began by seeking out trendy and street art-inspired fonts that would aptly represent the vibrant sport of skateboarding. Once I found the perfect font, I embarked on utilizing the pen tool to meticulously trace the contours of a skateboard shape. With precision and attention to detail, I then proceeded to wrap the chosen typography around the skateboard, seamlessly blending the two elements. This innovative approach resulted in a visually compelling representation that encapsulates the essence and spirit of skateboarding within the design.
Fig. 2.5 Font select & Text wrap

To depict the braid illustration, I employed the brush pattern technique as my creative approach. Beginning with the line tool, I skillfully crafted wave-like lines to generate a captivating visual effect that emulates the intricate texture of a braid. Through duplication, I replicated these lines three times, cleverly arranging and intertwining them to achieve a realistic braid appearance. To refine the braid's shape and ensure a seamless integration, I utilized the shape builder tool. By precisely aligning and manipulating each section of the braid, I skillfully merged and removed specific portions, resulting in a cohesive and visually appealing representation.
Fig. 2.6 Illustrate Braid

I incorporated the completed braid illustration into a brush pattern, enabling me to seamlessly draw it across the skateboard typography. This technique allowed me to showcase the braid motif enveloping the entire word, creating a visually captivating effect. By using the brush tool with the braid pattern, I effortlessly applied the intricately woven design to the skateboard typography. This integration enhanced the overall composition, visually intertwining the braid with the letters, and emphasizing their cohesive connection.
Fig. 2.7 Illustrate braid with brush pattern

In terms of color selection, I opted for yellow to represent the typography associated with skateboarding. Yellow, known for its vibrancy, symbolizes activity and captures the enthusiastic essence of skateboarding.

As for the braid illustration, I incorporated three distinct colors: beach, brown, and green. These colors were chosen to convey specific elements related to the braid's aesthetic and concept. The beach hue brings a touch of warmth and a coastal feel, evoking a sense of relaxation and natural beauty. The brown shade adds an earthy tone, signifying strength and stability. Lastly, the green color represents freshness and vitality, emphasizing the organic nature of the braid. By employing this color palette, I aimed to enhance the visual impact of the design, infusing it with energy, natural elements, and a harmonious blend of hues that collectively embody the spirit and themes associated with both skateboarding and the braid.
Fig. 2.8 Color scheme

To create a realistic and cohesive design, I applied an intertwine effect to seamlessly blend the braid illustration with the typography. This technique enhanced the visual impact by adding depth and dimension while emphasizing the connection between the elements. The result was a captivating composition that showcased the integration of the braid with the surrounding typography.

Fig. 2.9 Intertwine

Final Illustrate Typography
Fig. 2.10 Final Illustration Typography

Typeface showcase

Fig. 2.11 Typeface Showcase


FEEDBACK

Week 7
The deck has a pleasing overall design and shape, with the laces skillfully used to create an intertwining effect around the deck text.


REFLECTION

Experience
During these weeks, I got the chance to attend lectures and tutorials aimed at improving my Adobe Illustrator abilities and blending graphics with typography. I learned how to use tools like the pencil tool, shaper tool, width tool, 3D effect tool, and interweave tool. These tools were critical in producing visually appealing and intriguing graphics for Exercise 2. In addition, I got advice on performing in-depth study for the Maybank Foundation MyTIGER Values Art Competition 2023, which expanded my knowledge of the 12 SDG targets.

Observation
Throughout the project, I saw the value of detailed research and mood boards in influencing design direction. I was able to visualise and define the intended look for my typographic project by researching platforms like Pinterest and compiling my results into a mood board. Furthermore, I realised the importance of drawing both in draught form and digitally, since it allowed me to experiment with several design alternatives and the interweave effect for the braid image.

Finding
One of the most important discoveries from these weeks was the ability of combining diverse design components to improve the overall effect of the composition. I was able to develop aesthetically appealing designs that perfectly combined the parts by skilfully wrapping the chosen font around the curves of a skateboard and utilising the interweave effect for the braid image. Furthermore, I learned the significance of colour choice in communicating various ideas and feelings. The colour palette used, as well as the use of an interweave effect, gave the design depth, dimension, and coherence, resulting in a fascinating composition.

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