What is Design? (Initial Thoughts)

This is the question that I have been asked to define, a question that appears to be very open-ended and complex in its nature, for there are many different opinions concerning this topic. My first initial take on design is that it appears to focus on three aspects, all of which must be evident in order for a design to be successful. Three main pieces to a puzzle so to speak, which I believe are the following…

 A Rational: an underlying reason explaining the designs initial creation, which in turn will help to validate the designs existence or overall purpose.

Attention to Detail: elements such as color, typography, spacing, sizing, and texture which are chosen with careful consideration and are calculated in their placement within the design, for they all have a specific intention.

Content: this piece strives to provide answers to questions such as why the design was created, and what were the intentions behind the design itself. The contents main priority is to communicate through both the visuals and vocabulary chosen for that specific design.

That concludes my initial thoughts on what I think design is, or consists of, feel free to “Have At It” I look forward to hearing your thoughts and opinions.

My Design Process

Upon receiving an assignment I tend to write side notes as the teacher/ client is going over the brief. I then review the brief on my own time again to make sure I fully understand what the projects criteria is and what it will entail. From here I sit with the project a bit jotting down any initial ideas that come to mind.  I then go on to research both the product/company, as well as ideas from sources such as the Internet, annuals, magazines, other designers, media around me etc.

I then begin to draw up my initial thumbnail sketches, getting all my ideas on paper good or bad. Once this is done I usually review with friends, teachers or colleagues to determine what concepts are actually working, with the projects specifications.

I then take these concepts and create linear, which will help me to determine what is working and what is not, as the design is now on a larger scale. I will once again review with friends, teachers and colleagues for input in order to determine what else may need to be adjusted before I begin the digital phase.

Once my linear have been refined I begin transferring the concept into a digital representation. On the computer I am easily able to adjust and change elements such as typography, colours, and proportions. I will often print out these digitals for further review once again with friends, teachers and colleagues. Once I have everything just as I want it, I finalize the design and print the finished product.

 

Creative Block  (how to clean out the cobwebs)

When I hit a bump in the design process there are a few things that I like to do that help me to overcome this obstacle. I like to clear my head and step back from the project for a bit and in order to do this I often take part in other activities that I enjoy such as going for a walk, hitting the gym, riding horses, reading a book, watching a movie or TV show or go shopping.  I also tend to go for coffee breaks where I may return to my research in a different environment, or meet with friends to bounce ideas off of. A trip to the library also helps. Once I have had some time away from the project I feel that I am less frustrated and in a much clearer stated of mind, for I am more relaxed, and then the creative juices just seem to flow.

If any of you wish to share your creative process or ways to overcome the dreaded creative block, feel free to “Have At It”, for I am always curious to see how other creative minds deal with and overcome similar challenges.

Welcoming

Hello all and welcome to Have At It, a place designed to discuss thoughts and opinions on design, as part of my studies into the graphic design field in the heart of Toronto. Throughout the course of the next few months I will actively be researching and commenting on the relationship between communication design and the impact it has on our culture. Through examination of both theoretical and practical applications found within our mass media I will be laying the groundwork to establishing my own theory in regards to ‘what I think design is?’  In addition to my research any discussions, thoughts and comments I receive from you in response to my postings and opinions will help to further develop my theory. Conversing with those of you who experience the role of the mass media on a daily basis and how it impacts our society and social lives, will in turn help me to become a more efficient communications designer.

I look forward to hearing form all of you for this is a place where I want you to feel free to Have At It!