Interface Aesthetics 2009

Assignment 2: Layout (due on the course website on Sunday February 22)

In this layout assignment, you will explore horizontal, vertical, and diagonal compositions by creating 3 different designs of a possible “project poster”:

I: Horizontal Composition

Create a horizontal composition (i.e., no vertical or diagonal elements). Be sensitive to the positive space and negative space. Try to establish contract by manipulating the visual levels of dominance and subordination.

Hints: Experiment with scales, typographic color (e.g., black, gray), positive and negative space, and grouping.

II: Horizontal/Vertical Composition

Create a composition that involves both horizontal and vertical reading directions. Be sensitive to the reading directions you create with your composition.

III: Diagonal Composition

Create a composition that involves elements that are placed at 45° angles or at 30°/60° angles. Take advantage of the tensions you may create with your diagonal elements.

IV: Free Style (extra credit)

Create a composition that embodies your sense of a visual chord with energy and harmony. While giving the page a sense of liveliness and poise, don’t forget to give the reader a sense of direction.

Please post your compositions by Sunday February 22nd. You will present all 3 designs to the class for critique on Monday March 2nd.

Please post your layout homework below by Sunday, Feb 22.

Assignment 6: Print Media (due April 18)

You will create a sketch of a print media. As a group, pick a concept to be presented as a print media. The concept could be one of your course projects or a pseudo project for the sake of this exercise.

1. Format and Material
As a group, pick a format to present your concept. Brainstorm about possibilities offered by the format. Things to consider:

•    Affordance of the format (e.g., How many “faces” does the format have? Does the format stand on its own?)
•    Order in which information about the concept could be revealed
•    Possible effects offered by the material

2. Design the Interaction
Sketch your idea and build it. Use the sample templates, cardstock papers, markers, and cutting tools. Please use the cutting station to cut your materials.

3. In-Class Review (April 20)
Be prepared to discuss how your audiences interact with your print media and the manner in which they learn about the information you intend to present.