Assignment #2 | Shape Relations

Problem: Based on your research and sketches create an abstract black and white illustration of interrelated shapes with a combination of straight, curved and combination paths.

Limits: Use only the Bezier Pen and Direct Selection tools. Keep the number of points to a minimum. White fill, no stroke.

  1. Research /  Inspiration
    • Look for examples of interesting contour shape relationships in art, design, nature or everyday objects
    • For example: wood grain on a cabinet, the top of a pine cone, a child’s puzzle, cobblestones or sidewalk or stone path
    • Document these observations in your sketchbook
  2. Experimentation / Iteration
    • Make at least 6 thumbnails in pencil of free-form shape relationships. Start with one shape and the create another shape that follows the path of the first.
  3. Development of Skill and Craft
    • Open the file called bezier_shapes.ai and rename it to include your first inital and last name.
    • There are three different views at the bottom of the View Menu: Your Practice Shapes, Your Shapes Illustration and Tips.
      • Complete “Your Practice Shapes” first. Choose the practice shapes layer to start.
      • When you have completed Your Practice Shapes, choose Your Shapes Illustration from the view member and choose the your shapes layer to start.
      • Choose Views > TIPS if you need some help.
    • Notice that a black background rectangle has been created and locked on a layer.
    • Set your stroke to none by selecting the stroke icon in the tools palette and click the none icon.
    • Set your fill color to white by selecting the white swatch in the color palette.
    • Turn off smart guides and hide the bounding box.
    • Create your drawing in Outline mode (View > Outline) using only the Bezier Pen and Direct Selection tools.
    • Create CLOSED paths of interlocking shapes.
    • Create a combination of angles, curves and combination paths using as FEW points as possible.
    • Try to relate each shape to its neighbor, as if they are puzzle pieces that can fit together, but are pulled apart slightly.
    • When you have completed your drawing switch to Preview (Cmd+Y). If any of your shapes are not closed paths, select the two anchor points and join (Cmd+J) the anchor points.
  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
    • Student Example

      Student Example

  5. Thoughtful Assessment (Critique)
    • 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.
    • Name your file: firstinitiallastname_assignment2.ai