MediaArtTutorials

MEDIA 2DF3

Project 2

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P2 – In-Class Work I: Sketching & First Composition

Project 2 – In Pairs with Individual Work

Examples by previous students.

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Objective

Students will collaborate in pairs to create a series of four compositions, each offering a different visual interpretation of an assigned sea animal.

Each student will individually produce two compositions, ensuring a diverse range of styles—from abstraction to figurative to realistic.

The final works will be assembled together in a structured layout and showcased in an open exhibition.

Software:

• Adobe Illustrator (primary tool for composition)
  • ⚠️ Do not use the Image Trace tool in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop ⚠️
• Adobe Photoshop (optional, for textures and image optimization only)

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Composition Breakdown

Each pair must create four compositions:

1. Realistic Representation (1 composition)
   • Accurate and detailed rendering
   • Focus on anatomy, texture, and shading
2. Figurative/Illustrative Interpretation (1 composition)
   • Stylized or expressive but still recognizable
   • Can include collage or digital illustration
3. Abstract Representations (2 compositions)
   • Geometric or minimalistic
   • Inspired by Gestalt principles, negative space, or shape simplification

Each student creates one abstract composition and either the realistic or figurative piece. Decide this collaboratively. You must maintain the same aspect ratio in all of your compositions to ensure visual consistency across the project.

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[30–45 min] Sketching & Planning

Before jumping into digital work, students will complete a guided brainstorming session and begin sketching.

Brainstorming Questions:

• Understanding the Animal:
  • What are its key characteristics? (Shape, movement, texture, colour, patterns)
  • What makes it visually unique?
• Style Exploration:
  • What techniques are best for realistic/figurative representation?
  • How can it be simplified into geometric/abstract form?
• Collaboration & Unity:
  • What will visually connect your four compositions?
  • Will you share a colour palette, framing, or background style?
  • How will your pieces be displayed together?

Group Submission Requirement:

Each pair must submit a brainstorming document that includes:

• Answers to the questions above
• A short summary (3–5 sentences) describing the group’s artistic direction
• Rough sketches of all four compositions (2 per student)
• Colour palette considerations

📤 Group Submission. Naming Protocol: Group-#-Notes.pdf

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[Remaining Time] Start First Digital Composition

Each student begins working on either the realistic or figurative composition in Adobe Illustrator.
Photoshop may be used for minor texture or image effects only.

Each student must complete at least 80% of their realistic or figurative composition before the next class.

Document Setup:

Your Illustrator document must include the following settings for Logo Design:

• Naming Protocol: Lastname-Firstname-P2-1 or Lastname-Firstname-P2-2
• Units: Inches
• Size: 6–8 inches on its longest side (either width or height)
• Bleed: 0.3 in (on all sides)
• Color Mode: RGB
• Raster Effects: High (300 PPI)

Required Layers:

• Guides Layer: Include an inner rectangular border at 0.3 in from the edges.
• Composition Layer: This is where your main shapes should go.
• Background Layer: Add any background colors or images here.

Maintain the same aspect ratio in all of your compositions to ensure visual consistency across the project. ⚠️ Important: Make sure you follow the document setup instructions to avoid losing points.

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📥 Submission

1. Group brainstorming notes and sketches
   • Naming Protocol: Group-#-Notes.pdf
2. Two Individual Submission
   • Naming:
     • Lastname-Firstname-P2-1.pdf
     • Lastname-Firstname-P2-2.pdf

📌 Failure to follow document setup or naming instructions may result in a grade deduction.

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