Art Studio: Graphic Design
GRAPHIC DESIGN IS A CREATIVE PROCESS that combines art and technology to communicate ideas. Designers work with a variety of tools in order to convey a message from a client to a particular audience. The main tools are imagery and typography. Graphic design courses at HSU introduces students to the practice of visual communication with an emphasis on typography, print & web design, image making, contemporary and business practices. Traditional forms of image making, such as drawing, illustration and photography, are equally emphasized and incorporated into class projects. Students build from basic design and production exercises, and work toward the development of a market-ready portfolio.
Exercises challenge students’ visual aesthetic and stresses their understanding of visual meaning. Larger projects reflect the type of work typically found at design firms and advertising agencies. Projects include logomarks, poster design, branding, advertising campaigns, web design and packaging. Students regularly participate in design projects for the department, university or private businesses in the local community. Additionally, students work collaboratively with other departments, such a Business and Computer Science department, to increase students’ exposure to professional practice.