Techincal and Skill Development Assignments

Shape Build

Pixel Style

This assignment will challenge you to create a pixel style graphic illustration of a classic cartoon character. Use rectangular shapes, grids, guides, simplification, pixel graphics aesthetic, and the Shape Build Method. Pay attention to the detail present in the character you selected and how those details can be stylized in a more blocky pixel style. To complete your work, hide your source image and then export a PNG file for submission.

Objectives:

  • Develop understanding of Shape Building using the Pathfinder Tool
  • Explore relationship between historical and contemporary digital graphic creation
  • Explore pixel style graphics
  • Practice Visual Design Skills

Process:

  • Select image from selected cartoon character examples (bottom of page)
  • New Illustrator Document: Letter Size (8 1/2 X 11)
  • "Place" character image
  • Set source image as Template Layer
  • Use Shape Tools like rectangle, polygon, and Pathfinder Tool
  • Use grids and guides to help keep work aligned to pixel grid
    • Use only shapes
    • Use color
    • Create shapes that reflect content of source image
    • Organize layers based on composition
  • Export as PNG
  • Submit assignment upon completion
    • Submit one PNG (Web Safe)
    • "lastname_ShapePixelStyle.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: Shape Build Method Category

Example Resources

Source Images

  • source imagesource imagesource image
  • source imagesource imagesource image
  • source image