Final Project

Mind Mapping

DUE Class 15

Problem: Using the NYC MTA Subway map as a guide/inspiration, create a mind map of your choice.

Limits: Use layered CLOSED PATHS to create topographic areas, for example in a subway map there are bodies of water, land elevations, etc. Use pathfinder, dashed and solid stokes, symbols, styles and text to create destinations, “train” lines, station stops, etc.

Skills: Demonstrate skilled use of vector tools, menus and palettes (color, shape, transformation, pen, stroke, symbol, type). Learn to create a professionally organized client project using layers, naming conventions, color palette.

Research /  Inspiration

  1. Create a folder called: Final Project. Place all files related to this project in this folder in an organized way.
  2. Use the following Ming Mapping links for reference:
  3. Use the following Map Drawing links for reference:
  4. On paper, design a transit-styled mind map. You might think about how you process certain ideas, feelings, or what happens when you perform a physical activity. Or you mind make a map of certain problem you are trying to solve.

Experimentation / Iteration

Re-create a map of your neighborhood subway line or stop (Week 14)

  • Select one of the subway map sections below and place it as a template layer in a new file.
  • Create layers for each part of the map: topographic, roads, train lines, stops, text, etc.
  • Using the pen tool, begin by tracing the main topographic areas of the map: water, land, etc.
  • Next use the pen tool to create open paths for each road, ferry and subway line.
  • Use the symbol palette to create and reuse symbols for stops and icons.
  • For dashed and dotted lines, refer to the examples presented in class.

Development of Skill and Craft

  • See Week 14.

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

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.

Work Hour Tally

  • In the info section of your file, define the hours committed for each portion of the assignment, including dates and times.

Submission

  • Your  illustration folder is due in the DropBox on the date due.
  • Place all your files, including your photograph, any additional research, etc. in a folder named: firstinitiallastname_final
  • Name your file: firstinitiallastname_final.ai