Student Knowledge Object (SKO)
The field of practice I have investigated is graphic design. Introduction to Graphic Design explores various aspects including logos, typography, composition, colour, paper stock, purchase order forms, client contracts, and client briefs. I gained many practical skills, but the most significant was learning to trust my own ideas and designs. Project 3 showed me the importance of supporting creative concepts through exploration, development, and detailed documentation.
Graphic design aims to communicate, representing an organisation, company or individual through a recognisable visual image. Logos are more than aesthetic designs; they encapsulate concept, function, and aesthetics, which must be carefully considered. Designing a logo requires starting with a clear purpose and effectively using design elements such as shape, line, colour, imagery and text.
Joe Palmieri’s advice to "take risks, make mistakes" transformed my creative process. As a Digital Media student, I previously focused on pixel perfection in digital outputs. This course taught me to move beyond that by embracing exploration and refinement. Initially, I found the 24-page hand-drawn sketch requirement excessive compared to using Illustrator. However, the sketching process proved critical to developing my final logo, showing the importance of foundational work before moving to digital tools.
Introduction to Graphic Design provided an in-depth look at design principles and practical skills, emphasising creative confidence and process documentation. This process-driven approach, championed by Palmieri, reinforced the value of risk-taking and iterative development.
Graphic design aims to communicate through recognisable visual images. In this course, we followed a structured process to develop effective logos that convey a clear message.
The process began with exploring the logo’s concept—its meaning, mission, and vision. One method used was a brainstorming exercise where I listed everything that came to mind about my identity. This encouraged free expression without fear of mistakes or perfect wording. Once the concept was clear, we considered its function, including scalability, print medium, and colour reproduction. Finally, we defined aesthetics to appeal to the target audience. This framework highlighted the importance of purpose and communication through both function and form. A significant insight was the importance of documentation and process in achieving strong design outcomes.
As I complete my Bachelor of Design in Digital Media and aspire to work in web and UX/UI design, this course has equipped me with valuable insights. Graphic and web design, while distinct, share core principles: contrast, balance, emphasis, proportion, hierarchy, repetition, rhythm, pattern, white space, movement, variety, and unity. Understanding these principles helps me integrate graphic design into web design for cohesive results.
Here are ways I will prioritise graphic branding in future web design:
Maintain Consistency: Websites must reflect the brand’s image across all platforms to maintain equity.
Brand Recognition and Credibility: Consistent branding across websites and social media builds trust and authenticity, supporting positive customer relationships.
Positive User Experience: A credible, visually consistent brand improves user experience by appealing to target audiences.
Differentiate the Website: With many websites looking alike due to UX/UI trends, strong brand identity through visual elements like logos, typography, and colour will help my designs stand out.
By applying these techniques and principles, I will create websites that are functional, visually distinctive, and aligned with brand identity—adding real value for users and clients alike.
Challenges and mistakes were part of the learning. Initially struggling with hand-drawn sketches for Project 3 taught me the value of iteration. Pushing through discomfort led to stronger outcomes and a better understanding of non-digital methods.
Joe Palmieri’s method of risk-taking and deep engagement proved transformative. Extensive hand-drawn sketching underscored the value of foundational work. Effective documentation of the design process, concept, and reflections is essential when working with printers, suppliers, and clients.
Creating print assets was insightful and will inform future projects. I learned about clearance zones and bleed requirements, which are vital for successful prints and avoiding costly errors. Early client-signed documentation is key to protecting copyright and intellectual property.
I now understand that effective graphic design goes beyond digital tools; it involves deep conceptual work, exploration, and thorough documentation. This holistic approach enhances outcomes and communication with stakeholders. I will carry these principles into my future work.
Graphic design involves creating visual elements; web design organises these elements to enhance user experience. Both are essential for creating engaging, user-focused content. The skills and tools I learned allow me to blend graphic and web design effectively.
Consistent, recognisable branding is key to a strong online presence. A website is central to conveying a brand’s visual identity, meaning, mission, and vision. Using elements like logos, fonts, colour schemes, and typography, I can build a cohesive brand image. This dual expertise sets me apart from designers without a strong foundation in both disciplines.
Bibliography
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