Fundamentals of Design

Exercises

Studio Assignments

Paper

Biography and Art of László Moholy-Nagy

Course Description

This course will explore the basic principles of design and introduce the creative process. Design elements and relationships will be identified and employed to establish a basis for aesthetic sensitivity and critical analysis. Design will be presented as a tool of communication.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Apply the principles of visual perception.
2. Apply design rationales.
3. Evaluate function as it pertains to form within basic design.
4. Illustrate the perception of space within the working format.
5. Compose design exercises within the parameters of a given format.

Main Topics Covered

• What is Design?
• Content vs. Form
• The Elements of Design
• Positive and Negative Space
• Formal Composition in Design
• Translation
• Dilation
• Rotation
• Reflection
• Formal Composition Examples
• Formal vs. Semi-Formal Composition
• Design Elements and Variations Examples
• Gestalt Theory of Visual Psychology
• Informal Composition in Design
• Contrast
• Focus
• Gravity
• Rhythm
• Informal Compositions Examples
• Depth in Space
• Overlapping Objects and Diminishing Size
• Detail vs Sharp Focus and Changing Direction
• Volume in Space
• One Point Perspective
• Two Point Perspective
• Three Point Perspective
• Examples Using a Graphic Banner
• Identify the Elements Used to Create Depth
• Properties of Color
• Primary Hues
• Additive and Subtractive Color Wheels
• Color Relationships
• Complementary Colors
• Split-Complimentary Colors
• Analogous Colors
• Color Variations
• The Function of Design
• Three Step Process

Software Utilized

• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Microsoft Word

Credit: www.aionline.edu/programs/online_degree_coursecatalog/course_info_4.asp?course_code=CC112