Techincal and Skill Development Assignments

Brush and Shape

Graphic Styles

Create a sample sheet with a range of different vector graphic styles. The assignment introduces gradients, transparency, inner glow, outer glow, feather, and drop shadows. graphic styles can be combined with one another in various combinations to create different types of "looks" that you might sample for other projects. Your artboard should include 16 thumbnails that will show each of the listed graphic styles and your choice of combinations of each of them. The thumbnails should be presented in a grid format. To complete your work, hide your source image and then export a PNG file for submission.

Objectives:

  • Develop understanding of use of Graphic Styles
  • Develop understanding of gradients and visual effects
  • Practice Visual Design Skills

Process:

  • New Illustrator Document: Letter Size (8 1/2 X 11)
  • Create 16 thumbnails, distributed in standard grid format
  • Use Gradients and Visual Effects
    • Explore each of the following:
      • gradients: linear and radial
      • transparency and blending modes
      • inner glow
      • outer glow
      • feather
      • drop shadow
    • Modify settings from defaults to create new styles
    • Combine different effects from list
    • Do not duplicate styles
  • Export as PNG
  • Submit assignment upon completion
    • Submit one PNG (Web Safe)
    • "lastname_GraphicStyles.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