Techincal and Skill Development Assignments
Brush and Shape
Gradient Mesh
Recreate a photographic image of a piece of fruit in a realistic appearance using vector graphics. There will be several images to choose from at the bottom of this assignment page. This assignment will introduce the Gradient Mesh Tool as a way to create color changes that move away from flat color and include more continuous tone. The process introduced is technical in nature and requires attention to detail. A similar assignment is demonstrated in the tutorial linked here. Pay attention to detail and work to make a believably realistic vector version of your chosen photograph. To complete your work, hide your source image and then export a PNG file for submission.
Objectives:
- Develop understanding of the Gradient Mesh Tool
- Develop understanding of gradients and continuous tone
- Practice Visual Design Skills
- Explore vector graphics processes related to realism, reflection, light, and shadow
Process:
- Select image from selected photographs of fruit (bottom of page)
- New Illustrator Document: Letter Size (8 1/2 X 11)
- "Place" source image
- Set source image as Template Layer
- Use Gradient Mesh Tool
- Trace shapes from source image
- Gradient Mesh tool to add cross contour lines
- Switch between Preview and Outline modes
- Select gradient mesh anchors and use eyedropper to sample color from source image
- Use layers to separate part of object
- Edges of mesh shapes should sample from each other to blend
- Organize layers based on object
- Export as PNG
- Submit assignment upon completion
- Submit one PNG (Web Safe)
- "lastname_GradientMesh.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
Source Images
