Assignment #4 | Bird Guide

Problem: Using your midterm project bird illustration and research text, create a CMYK, 8.5×11″ bird guide that demonstrates type layout skills.

Skills: Demonstrate an understanding and use of 3 or more of the following:

  • Import Text
  • Columns of Type
  • Change Type Attributes
  • Type Styles
  • Wrap Type
  • Reshape with envelope
  • Text on paths and shapes
  • Type Outlines

Limits: Your Bird Guide should have a 1/2″ margin and include the following sections:

  • Name of Bird
    • Latin Name
  • General – General information and overview of the bird
  • Characteristics – Description of size, color, pattern, etc.
  • Voice – Description of calls, song, etc.
  • Habitat – Description of nesting locations, type, etc.
  • Survival – Effects of human activity on the bird population

EXAMPLE: [download]

  1. Research /  Inspiration
    1. Look for examples of bird guides, scientific illustrations and plates.
    2. Print and document these examples and observations in your sketchbook
  2. Experimentation / Iteration
    • Experiment with color combinations, fonts and styles.
    • Choose those that are most successful and complement your bird illustration.
  3. Development of Skill and Craft
    • Refer to Week 09 Lab.
    • Make sure your project demonstrates good Project Organization (layers, fonts, etc.)
  4. Expression of Form, Emotions, Concepts, and Voice
    • Your illustration, while limited to by the constraints of the project, should express your unique voice or graphic style using basic design principles.
    • Show a connection between the original research and the final illustration
  5. Thoughtful Assessment (Critique or Written)
    • Bring all assignment parts to class.
    • Be prepared to present, discuss and analyze your finished work in terms of concept, craft, and what you learned.
    • State the following: your name, what you are presenting (title and design problem), which parts are successful and why, which parts are unsuccessful and why.
  6. Work Hour Tally
    • In the info section of your file, define the hours committed for each portion of the assignment, including dates and times.
  7. Submission
    • Your  illustration is due in the DropBox at the beginning of the next class meeting.
    • Label your file with your name and the title.
      • example: jsmith_assignment04.ai
    • Put all files into a FOLDER and name the folder:
      • example: jsmith_assignment04
    • NOTE: Make sure you include all fonts used in the project in your project folder.