Design Strategy: Rationale and Statement of Intent

Rationale


"An investigation of image making, focussing on publishing and print" Was the initial statement I made on my selection of briefs and the potential basis for a design strategy into 3rd year. 
Having vested interests in illustration, publication, editorial, website design and promotional delivery I will be trying to include my external interests of videogames,  science, sci fi and socially driven media into a comprehensive portfolio of work evidenced by the work produced this year.
To do this I will need to evidence that I am capable of using the facilities available to demonstrate my abilities when using print-based media, as well as the utilisation of digital software.
Science, science fiction and video games have played a huge part in my life, so it only makes sense to investigate, elaborate and create design that is geared toward these subjects to give me footing into the respective industries.
I ideally want to do 2 regular briefs and 2 wefty briefs as it will allow me ample time to construct and get on with my dissertation which could cause problems if not organised or prepared for beforehand.
So I would say that the overarching statement for the year to come would be:
An investigation of sciences and videogames through experimental image-making, utilising different media with a focus on publication and print finishes.


Statement of Intent


I will be looking at how I can achieve a much more professional outcome when designing for print based solutions at a level I feel reflects my personal ambitions and keep trying to better myself with each project I embark on. 
For publication(s) I will be looking at book-binding/book making for reasons such as the book fair, being able to create - independently - a piece of work suitable to the content and format (restrictions) as in designing for publications, there is rarely one solution; for example a multitude of cover designs, promotional materials like stickers, coupons, links or business cards could be integrated into the format.


Alongside this I will be using image-making/illustration in my design as normal, but would like to keep my illustration that does not fit into a direct context within my professional work a separate portfolio/entity as an output into a separate part of the design industry that could aid  another possible route into a career or placement. Since I have started doing some band flyers/posters already I would like to carry this on after/during my remaining time on the course as it is something I greatly enjoy.


Editorial illustration/design has been a subject I have wanted to do since the image module. Taking form of a restricted exercise in visual communication and image making capabilities, it is also an easy way to get yourself noticed and in the public eye. My interests of editorial are extensive yet limited, potential mini-briefs or illustrations would be directed at: OXM, PS3M, FRONT, Loaded, G2, Gamesmaster and the Escapist.


The last focus/direction would be on design for web, something I touched upon in second year, I believe it to be detrimental to my work as I often get asked to do people's websites, but with complicated requests that I would need much greater assistance with. Flash and HTML5 embedding for media would aid me in creating a range of sites that demonstrates my capabilities as a young edgy designer, but lends that edge to a level of high standard professional design that could contribute to all projects. 


In summary my work will be based on my experiments with print and media based solutions, with the focus on editorial and publishing. On the other hand, my work will also be focused on, but not limited to, my experiences with web design and digital production, which will inform the process of selecting the right way to deliver the project.




Brief 1


Title: Positive Posters


A brief that emphasises the importance of an issue through an investigation of concept and research with a focus on image-making and high impact visuals.


Delivery: Portrait A1 300dpi CMYK poster, although potential for developing into publication.




Brief 2


Title: Heroes of Science


A brief that looks at how certain scientists have had a profound effect on modern society as well as how we communicate with each other.


Delivery: 5 Covers for publication, 1 full set of double page spreads for one scientist.


Brief 3


Title: National Science Foundation 


A focus on image-making and composition at its core, with an investigation of scientific endeavours and engineering prowess. 


Delivery: No real limitations; Photography, illustration, Informational posters/graphics, interactive games and videos.




Brief 4


Title: 25th Anniversary of Zelda


An investigation of image-making, format and delivery with a focus on promotional materials.


Delivery to be considered