Techincal and Skill Development Assignments

Brush and Shape

Brush and Expand

Create a drawing from observation Using the Brush Tool and Wacom Tablet. Thick brush strokes can be converted to closed paths by using the Expand operation to create hand drawn shapes and forms with vector graphics. As you draw, consider how a brush stroke can be expanded into a path and incorporated into a Shape Build Process. Draw directly in Illustrator and build your drawing in layers, with black lines or "inks" as the top layer. To complete your work, hide your source image and then export a PNG file for submission.

Objectives:

  • Develop understanding of the Brush Tool
  • Develop understanding of observational drawing with digital tools
  • Practice Visual Design Skills

Process:

  • New Illustrator Document: Letter Size (8 1/2 X 11)
  • Choose brush, color, and size
  • Use Brush Tool to draw from observation
    • Use limited brush sizes and types
    • Use color
    • Draw in a freehand way with tablet
    • Expand or Create Outlines as needed to generate closed paths
    • Use layers to separate image by color, object, etc
    • Line work should be done on top most layer
    • Organize layers based on composition
  • Export as PNG
  • Submit assignment upon completion
    • Submit one PNG (Web Safe)
    • "lastname_BrushExpand.png"

Evaluation:

  • 25 points – Requirements
    • Meets Requirements
    • Project Appears Complete
    • Illustrations are Well-Developed
    • Basic (15pts) - Mid Level (20pts) - Advanced (25pts)
  • 25 points - Execution
    • Demonstrates Correct Use of Vector Tools
    • Vector Tools Applied in Appropriate Ways
    • Shows Evidence of Understanding Assigned Processes
    • Basic (15pts) - Mid Level (20pts) - Advanced (25pts)
  • 25 points - Presentation
    • Demonstrates Understanding of Visual Design Principles
    • Shows Evidence of Attention to Detail
    • Demonstrates Understanding of Aesthetic Presentation
    • Basic (15pts) - Mid Level (20pts) - Advanced (25pts)
  • 25 points – Solution
    • Evidence of Self Expression
    • Evidence of Creative Approach
    • Evidence of Risk Taking
    • Basic (15pts) - Mid Level (20pts) - Advanced (25pts)

Conditions:

  • Technical and Skill Development Assignment: Brush and Shape Category