Brief Analysis.
Task 1:
This week's challenge calls for us to dig deeper into critical thinking and show off our thinking processes. Our assignment is to evaluate a field of communication in which we want to develop our self-initiated project. We're supposed to start by finding leading designers, artists and creators who are essential in a specific design field and can give us ideas and inspiration for our creativity. We must also consider how our interests, identities and experiences relate to these subjects.
Self-initiating a project is simply a matter of taking the initial step; once the initial step is taken, the rest is easy. Throughout my design career, I have designed several self-initiative projects and have enjoyed every step of the process. I am typically a person who prefers to adhere to a brief and adhere to the guidelines. However, I relish the freedom of designing on a regular basis. It provides me with the opportunity to challenge myself, investigate new topics, and gain new skills. Therefore, I am eager to begin my creative process and explore the realm of creativity.
Learning Objectives:
Research — Select and deploy appropriate research methodologies to inform the needs within a project.
Distil — Position a creative strategic insight that has been distilled and refined through an informed investigation.
Imagine — Deliver appropriate and innovative ideas that embrace risk, have contemporary relevance and question the boundaries of the discipline.
Make — Select and utilise relevant tools, skills and technologies in the delivery, iteration and sustainable production of an outcome.
Collaborate — Demonstrate inclusive and empathetic strategies to plan and execute a project across distributed collaborative situations.
Design — Realise a final solution that evidences its strategic journey and clear relationship between form and function.
Communicate — Communicate effectively in a range of contexts and situations to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Previous self-initiated projects: Contemporary Practice_GED710
The Self & Identity:
click on the image to see the blog post.
“The best people to work for are me, myself and I.”
-Oscar Wilde
“Me, myself and I” is a typeface defining my character. I am a human. I am a woman. I am a graphic designer, leaving my fingerprints everywhere, making a difference in the world. I designed this font using the inking and stamping method. Each letterform is hand-formed with different fingers and different weights. The typeface’s narrative reminds people God gave each one of us a fingerprint that no one else has so that we can leave an imprint that no one else can. It is easy to compliment things about ourselves; however, facing the true negative aspects of our identities is more complicated. It is hard to share the things I hate the most about myself. However, I must recognize these traits without turning them into someone else's problem.
Message Delivered:
click on the image to see the blog post.
This project is about expressing an emotion about the city I am currently living in so I chose "homesick". First, my colour theme serves as a counterpoint to my emotions. I chose yellow, a colour associated with joy and happy images. However, I used it to communicate the opposite meaning, creating a juxtaposition. Second, I decided on an iPhone screen to represent how homesickness works. Communication happens primarily through digital screen devices and not face-to-face. Third, I assigned a different interpretation to every letter of the word "homesick". I created associations around each letter, for example, "sHy" for H and "alOne" for O. Along with each word, I added line art drawings to illustrate their literal meaning and personal meaning further.
Skills & Making:
click on the image to see the blog post.
"In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn.
- Phill Collins
Learn it, then quiz it" is an innovative educational tool I designed, eager to delve into a new realm of knowledge. Combining three distinct languages-English, braille code and ASL sign language -this tool was specifically created to cater for my personal learning abilities and perspectives. The neon colours were chosen to enhance contrast and aid in colour memory recall. The tool consists of two parts: educational cards, which provide comprehensive information and teach the foundational steps of learning, and a testing component that enables me to assess my memory and understanding of the material covered. Through this technique, I have experienced significant benefits and am delighted to have acquired a valuable skill.
New Steps:
click on the image to see the blog post.
For this project, I wanted to challenge myself to conceptualise a peculiar amalgamation of two very distinct brands into one. Therefore, I combined Dior and a dairy brand to create something distorted and inconceivable. Dairy products are nothing compared to Dior. They are considered very cheap and cost nothing compared to a £2000 Dior bag. Thus, I wanted to combine the implications of luxury and necessity into one product. Dior is one of the most extravagant brands in the world, and Diary is a food necessity for many people. Hence, juxtaposing the magnificent Dior with a dairy brand and vice versa will perplex people and send a strong message of how a necessity is essential for life while extravagance is just a bonus.
Discover Process:
Ideas for self-initiated project survey responses:
I started my project by surveying to get feedback from different groups of people. This process changed my thinking process and opened up new ideas. Hearing other points of view broadened my perspective and opened up new ways of thinking. It highlighted the importance of getting input from multiple perspectives to approach projects from a holistic and dynamic point of view.
Idea generation:
In my design projects, I consistently strive to break free from traditional boundaries and embrace uniqueness. In a world characterized by poverty, hunger, violence, inequality, pollution and injustice, I draw inspiration from topics that may appear strangely odd or even perplexing initially. However, through extensive research and development, these projects often reveal a profound and innovative perspective, delivering fresh insights into how we can rethink and improve our way of life. Thus, my aim for this four-week challenge is to question the norm, address complex problems, and inspire new ways of thinking and living that can positively impact our world.
Self-Initiated brief topics:
Using Art Therapy for prisoners in Solitary confinement (package design)
Setting up a art exhibitions for orphanages + refugee camps (branding identity)
Improving mental health illnesses by making someone’s day (print & layout design)
Brief Idea 1: freed prison
Using Art Therapy for prisoners in Solitary confinement:
This brief revolves around implementing Art Therapy for individuals in solitary confinement within prisons. While prisoners are often associated with criminal offences, it's essential to acknowledge those who have faced unjust circumstances like racism or inequality, sometimes leading to wrongful convictions. As a designer, I cannot challenge the legal system but contribute something positive to those already incarcerated. Therefore, the primary focus of this brief is on prisoners in solitary confinement, who often experience feelings of isolation and distress. If I undertake this project, I would aim to create a three-in-one book. Considering prison regulations, only books are allowed inside, and this book would comprise three sections: a colouring section, an activity section, and a journal, each serving a particular purpose. For example, the activity would feature safety-conscious crayons or play dough, which can aid cognitive behaviours and prevent harm while enjoying simple artsy movements. The journal would contain letters for self-reflection and post-release guidance, promoting personal growth and the sensation of having someone to speak to. The colouring book would offer an outlet for emotional expression and distraction from negative influences, aligning with rehabilitation and positive transformation goals while acquiring new skill sets. The project would aim to create a better tomorrow and to give people a second chance to make things right.
Brief Idea 2: U matter
Setting up a art exhibitions for orphanages + refugee camps:
Orphanages and refugee camps. I frequently encounter individuals, especially children, living on the streets who once had homes and identities but were lost by life's challenges. Therefore, this brief serves as a reminder to refugees and orphanages that their voices and artistry are significant and appreciated by the world. If I were to take on this project brief, my role would include developing a unique brand for the exhibition that aligns with the spirit of their stories. I would also be responsible for creating a digital wayfinding platform that offers a glimpse into the exhibition's layout, improving the overall experience for both visitors and attendees. Through this project, we can amplify these unheard voices and affirm their importance in our global community.
Brief Idea 3: So-shell-ising (chosen brief)
Improving mental health illnesses by making someone’s day
This brief is very personal to me, which is why I'm leaning towards this one. According to research studies, a positive impact on another person's day can have a significant effect on one's own mental health. By making others smile or feel appreciated, we release endorphins, leading to fulfilment and contentment within ourselves. Not only does this positively affect our mood, but it can also reduce stress and anxiety levels. From personal experience, I feel happy when I make someone happy. Thus, I promised myself that whenever I felt sad or had a bad day, I would sweeten someone else's day. I've lived that promise all my life and helped myself through many tough times because of this simple gesture. And by "someone", I mean "a stranger." Making someone you know happy is beneficial, too, but it has a double effect on a stranger.
Furthermore, I came up with the name "So-shell-ising" because, much like snails, people have shells too, though not in a physical sense. These metaphorical shells serve as our emotional armour. When we're scared, sad, shy, or experiencing any emotion other than happiness, we tend to retreat into these protective shells. It's a natural human instinct to shield ourselves from vulnerability and discomfort, and just like snails, we seek refuge within until we feel safe and ready to emerge again. Understanding this emotional aspect of our "shells" can help us empathize with others and support when they need it most.
Hence, I initially aim to craft a typeface utilizing natural shells, which I'll gather from the beach. The unique typeface will symbolize human interaction and the impact of socialization on mental health. The idea is to use these shells as a vessel for hiding secret messages that can brighten someone's day. However, the shells won't be presented on their own; they will be affixed to cards. These cards will contain shells, hidden messages, and a small space on the back for individuals to add personal comments. The concept may appear a bit obscure at this stage. However, once I figure out the sketches and visual representations, I will modify the concept to make it more transparent.
These are only intended outcomes. I might slightly change a few things with further research and development.
SML questions:
Small Questions:
Q1:
If you had to choose an audience or user group of one person, who most needs to hear what you are communicating?
Teenagers, as this is a crucial stage where mental health challenges often arise. It's vital to engage them in positive activities like helping others to promote well-being.
Q5:
You have one second to convey your idea, how do you do that? What would your mind flash in a split second?
In one second, I'd envision a shell transforming into a letter or symbol, with the hidden message concept implied, symbolizing the creation of a unique shell-inspired typeface.
Q2:
If the intended audience could only experience your project once when would that be? A specific day of a year, stage in their life?
The ideal moment would be during their high school years when teenagers are navigating various challenges and when mental health issues often emerge.
Q6:
Make something that represents your project as a physical piece to wear, ie, a pin, a ribbon. What would that be?
A wearable representation of my project could be a distinctive shell-shaped necklace symbolising hidden messages within, fostering positivity and growth.
Q3:
Thinking about your audience, what is the smallest reason why someone would'nt want to see your project?
The smallest reason someone might not want to see my project could be a lack of interest in typography, graphic design, or any sort of art-related initiatives.
Q7:
How would you design your project so it is aimed at a child? How would the content of the project change for the child?
I would create the alphabets and numbers using shells and turn it into an educational storytelling book, making it a captivating and informative experience for children.
Q4:
We communicate primarily using sight and hearing. Ignoring those, what other sense could you use?
Touch and smell can convey information and emotions through tactile feedback, scents, and even taste, though less commonly used for communication.
Q8:
Scenario... you’re messaging a grandparent or elderly friend of the family to explain your project. Write that text.
I'm working on a project to promote positivity and creativity among teens and young adults through art and typography. It's about brightening the world with their creative expressions.
Medium Questions:
Q1:
How can you keep your target audience interested in your project?
For teenagers, I could involve integrating social media and relatable content on platforms they commonly use, ensuring your project resonates with their experiences and captures their attention.
Q4:
How could you take something small and extend it into something bigger?
By collaborating with designers to diversify the range of shell-inspired fonts, or hosting workshops or online tutorials for people to create their own shell-based typefaces. This way, the initial idea of a single typeface becomes a collective effort with a variety of fonts and a growing creative network.
Q2:
Can you design only part of an object where someone else can continue it?
Certainly! I can design the initial part of a shell-based font and provide shells to others, allowing them to continue and customize the font, fostering a collaborative and creative community project.
Q5:
If you were using a second language in your project, what would it be?
If I were using a second language in my project, I would choose Arabic, as it's my first language, and I would aim to teach others this language, sharing its rich culture and heritage. I might even create an Arabic typeface using shells as part of the project, adding a unique creative dimension to the language learning experience.
Q3:
What are the two colours you would use to represent your project?
I would choose beige and blue as the primary colors to represent my project. These colors, reminiscent of shells and the beach, would evoke a sense of tranquility, connection to nature, and the hidden treasures within each shell.
Q6:
How can your design project be shared with your audience?
To share my project and create an memorable shared experience for my audience, encouraging engagement and appreciation of the shell-based typeface project, I would utilize a multi-channel approach, incorporating online platforms, educational workshops, and printed materials.
Large Questions:
Q1:
How could your project follow a community model? Can a small action make something huge?
The purpose of my project, which is to promote mental health through the use of a shell-based font, can be interpreted as a community model, in which individuals can contribute their own designs or messages inspired by the shell. Each small shell represents a small action, which can have a significant impact on another person's life by conveying positivity and acts of kindness. This collective action can lead to the formation of a supportive community that focuses on mental health and creativity.
Q3:
Think of someone with social media exposure. What could you make that could be adopted by their followers?
To leverage the social media exposure of an influencer or public figure, I could create a social media challenge or campaign related to my project. For instance, I might encourage followers to create their own shell-inspired artworks or typefaces, share them on social media using a specific hashtag, and nominate others to participate. This would not only engage the influencer's followers but also create a viral trend around the project, spreading its message of positivity and kindness more widely.
Q2:
How could you get an audience to wear or bear something that means they commit to your project for life?
To encourage the audience to commit to my project for life, I could create a meaningful symbol or token related to the shell-based typeface. For example, a shell-shaped wearable accessory, like a necklace or pin, could serve as a lifelong reminder of their commitment to spreading positivity and kindness through artistic expression and typography. Such a wearable accessory would be emotionally resonant and would foster a lasting commitment to the mission of the project.
Q4:
When someone encounters your project, how can it expand or be added to?
When someone encounters my project, they can start by following my example of improving their mental health through acts of kindness and helping others. They can expand on my project or contribute to it by being creative and using their own power to spread positivity. They might share their experiences and the project's message through social media platforms, encouraging others to join the movement and share smiles, thus amplifying the project's impact and reach.
The SML questions helped me build my project, identify personal learning strategies, and evaluate a negotiated brief. I learned that sometimes the smallest ideas could lead to finding an "opening", a small inspirational way into a successful project. Answering the given questions has helped me shape the path I'm taking for my project. I was able to gain a deep understanding of what I was asked to do and refine my target audience, colour theme, typeface choice, and the primary purpose of my project.
Final 3 Questions:
Q1: How does the act of making someone else happy or bringing a smile to their face contribute to improving one's own mental health?
Q2:How does the influence on teenagers, whether towards positive or negative actions, impact their mental health, and how can encouraging them to help others lead to positive mental health outcomes?
Q3:"What is the significance of a typeface in design, particularly when addressing mental health, and how can a carefully chosen typeface effectively represent and convey meaning in various mental health contexts?"
Case studies:
Question 1:
How do you identify the subject of a self-initiated project?
Question 2:
How do you structure & plan the production of a self-initiated project?
Veronica Fuerte:
Veronica Fuerte's point of view on self-initiated projects resonates with me due to my own experiences with client ideas that did not match my creative vision. I believe rejected concepts can be the starting point for exceptional self-initiative projects. Her approach of starting from the beginning and exploring creative paths encouraged me to start my own route of trial and error, which can lead me to develop innovative projects.
Veronica's words reinforce my conviction that self-initiation projects are essential for creativity and pushing the boundaries. I always feared starting from zero with no rules to follow or having my idea cancelled out by a client; however, after listening to Veronica's experiences, I learned that rejections can be a source of valuable self-initiative projects and that creativity is limitless.
Christoph Miller:
I’ve learned a lot from listening to Christoph Miller’s podcast, Offshore Studio. I love how Christoph talks about how his interests align with Isobel’s and how they’ve gone from small to larger self-started projects. It’s a testament to the importance of true collaboration and how early success can inspire more self-started projects in the future.
Christoph’s insights have helped me better understand how a studio organically finds and benefits from self-started projects, and it’s been a great source of inspiration for me as I want to keep my creative process dynamic and multi-faceted for my self-initiated project while pursuing my passions and developing new ideas.
Vince Frost:
I was really inspired by the story of Vince Frost, especially his book "Design Your Life". He had a packed schedule and was the CEO of Frost Collective, but he still managed to turn his personal struggles into a book and a brand. When he said, "I realised I wasn't doing a book; I was actually creating a brand," I felt like I wanted to redesign my life right now and do what he did and more.
He's connected all over the world and talks about his experiences in a candid way on his podcast. It's like he's trying to explain life's mysteries and help people learn. He's also really committed to doing events like "De-frost", where he talks to different groups of people, connecting them and sharing what he's learned. His commitment to bringing design and life together and inspiring others really touched my heart and soul.
Contextual Research:
Creating the Perfect Design Brief: How to Manage Design for Strategic Advantage:
After reading "Creating the Perfect Design Brief: How to Manage Design for Strategic Advantage," I gained valuable insights into crafting my own self-initiated project. The book gave me a wealth of information on various terms related to the design brief and how they can guide and motivate creative projects.
An interesting fact I was unaware of was the several terms people refer to in a design brief. However, out of all the terms, I agreed with the author's critique on the term "job ticket", which refers to a design brief. I found this term limiting and dull compared to the more holistic and strategic approaches outlined in the book. This reinforced my conviction on the importance of having a well-thought-out design brief.
Lloyd Dangle:
“During my strategy sessions I integrate live, hand-drawn visuals––not as art but as thinking tools. These pictures, together with structured conversations, help leaders cut through complexity, and gain the clarity they need to make better decisions quickly.”
-Lloyd Dangle
I’ve learned a lot from Lloyd Dangle’s thoughts on design thinking sketches. His style of visual problem-solving and idea generation has helped me to see the power of sketching as a tool of thought. I’ve learned that not only does sketching help in conveying ideas, but it also plays an integral part in the creative process. Dangle’s philosophy of ‘accepting imperfection’ and using sketching to iterate and fine-tune ideas has changed my approach to design challenges. Drawing from Lloyd’s wisdom, I’ve come to appreciate the dynamic and vital role sketching plays in the design thinking process, which I will incorporate into my project nest week.
Self-Reflection:
You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great."
- Zig Ziglar
For this week's task, we delved into self-initiated projects, which are both thrilling and demanding. It's fascinating how an initial idea can grow from a spark to a full-blown project that has the potential to make a real difference in people's lives. I've been using research techniques that I picked up at uni, but I didn't fully appreciate their importance then—but now realise their vital role in shaping my project. To ensure my project's success, I've adopted the "Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver" process to ensure my project's success, guiding ideation, problem-solving, and implementation, ultimately leading to effective outcomes. I freely explore ideas during the discovery phase, embracing mistakes and boundary-free thinking. This week's challenge marks just the beginning, and I'm eager to embark on the journey of exploration, research, and crafting a new self-initiated brief. As Martin Luther King Jr. wisely said, "Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."
