LARTS 296S Fundamentals of Graphic Design
In this introductory course to Graphic Design, students will study the basic elements of Visual Language: shape, image, color, typography, and layout. Using successful examples from the history of Graphic Design, we will learn how to clearly communicate a message by creating work in different design genres, including logotype, posters, book/brochure, and websites. This course is designed to help both beginners and more experienced students learn the elements of self-promotion, from posters to websites. Note: Students must provide their own laptops. The primary software to be used is Adobe Creative Suite; the license for this software is available for purchase as either a monthly or yearly subscription. Students may opt to use Open Source tools to complete course assignments and projects. Those opting to use other software programs to realize the approaches and techniques discussed in class will be responsible for learning the functions and navigation of these programs on their own, through consultation of manuals and any other online resources (tutorial videos, forums, etc.) that they may find available pertaining to the program in question. The primary software to be used is Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign