Sustainability Project(Final)

A film created for my Concept Development Class. I was really passionate about this assignment because I had previously bought packs of water bottles every week before I had discovered the Brita water bottles. So not only was I adding to the waste on earth, but also a great deal of money was lost on my part as well.

I created this video using Adobe After Effects CS6. The music used in the film is "Unintended" by Muse and "Trojans" by Atlas Genius. Photo credits go to:

http://www.heatingoil.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/barrels-of-oil.jpg
(image of oil barrels)
http://www.springsmountainwater.com/images/landfill.jpg
(image of land fill)
http://www.eurekarecycling.org/ImageUpload/Image/Incinerator_small.JPG
(image of incinerator)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsmMSWeRmEQbIUdKK-V1zyxCJHWbfeYNBXF2Wkq46c7rWj1qE8q0bqKqm3kn9UpDbfUWb7r_ysnlW7pX0nKpNI6cFQ4Qkzsnch_cfRXfSpXjU1JKAP70rvp3k2Z2DiY5HpZkkqtBHzSU/s1600/plastic+in+water.jpg
(image of aquafina label in water)
http://www.localphilosophy.com/images/article-images/img_Great-Pacific-Garbage-Patch_2.jpg
(image of guy rowing through Great Pacific Garbage Patch)
http://reevolved.blogspot.com/2010/04/perils-of-plastic.html
(image of plastic in animals)
http://blog.envirosax.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/turtle.jpg
(image of turtle w/plastic)
http://aircrap.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Dead-bird-killed-by-eating-plastics1.jpg
(image of plastic in bird)
https://teendiaries.net/sites/default/files/styles/story_gallery/public/field/image/TD_Wallet%20Body%20Benefits_2.jpg
(image of water bottle w/benefits)
http://www.brita.com/img/products/thumbs/brita-bottle-aqua.png
(image of brita water bottle alone)
http://onefrugalchick.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/britalogo.jpg
(image of brita logo)
http://img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/27/13277535_121113134250.jpg
(image of Brita water bottle in hand)
http://www.great-wall-of-china.org/Great-Wall-of-China-Images/great_wall_china_photo_gov.jpg
(image of Great Wall of China)
http://www.altiusdirectory.com/Arts/images/taj-mahal.jpg
(image of Taj Mahal)
http://images.nationalgeographic.com/wpf/media-live/photos/000/265/cache/colosseum-dusk_26512_600x450.jpg
(image of Roman Colosseum)
http://www.thedepartureboard.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Petra-Jordan.jpg
(image of Petra Jordan)
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/peru/machu-picchu/your-machu-picchu-photos/#/sunrise-machu-picchu_36170_600x450.jpg
(image of Machu Picchu)
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/07/photogalleries/seven-wonders/#/new-old-7-wonders-chichen-itza-mexico_18302_600x450.jpg
(image of Chichen Itza)
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/07/photogalleries/seven-wonders/#/new-old-7-wonders-christ-redeemer-rio-janeiro-brazil_18303_600x450.jpg
(image of Christ the Redeemer)
http://s3.amazonaws.com/influenster-starter/uploads/products/625x353/f1bbc7945c341f5238a0483f693a204cb37da88a.jpg
(image of Brita Water Bottle Colors)
http://www.gograhamgo.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/davis-water.jpg
(image of kid drinking water)
http://www.2wired2tired.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Brita-For-Kids-Bottles-Review.jpg
(image of 2 kids drinking water)
http://www.nobiggie.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/brita-bottle-399x245.jpg
(image of kid drinking water in striped shirt)

Sources used:
http://www.cleanair.org/Waste/wasteFacts.html
http://www.storyofstuff.org/movies-all/story-of-bottled-water/
http://venice.patch.com/articles/group-hoping-l-a-will-ban-plastic-water-bottles
http://www.livestrong.com/article/158745-dangers-of-plastic-water-bottles/http://www.youtube.com/my_videos_edit?video_id=VqheOaJAM-Y&ns=1

Day 18 - AIGA videos

Today in class, we watched various videos surrounding AIGA. I think we did this because Jimmy really wants us to become part if this association and open our eyes to what it has to offer. To be honest, I'm still on the fence about joining because I'm still unclear as to what it has to offer me. Yes, it's great to be apart of something larger than yourself, but I still don't fully understand what they're about. Perhaps, I'll do more research and then decide.

Then we got to leave early to work on our final projects. I'm using after effects on mine and needless to say the process is very tedious. I initially worked for 3 hours one day & only got 10 seconds done. Then I worked 6 hours and got another minute added. Overall, it's going to take a lot of time but I'm really excited about my project because its something I'm passionate about.

Day 19 - Mind boggled

Today in class we started off by distinguishing the difference between a designer and a publicist. More specifically, we discussed what makes a designer or what is design? Yet, design is such a complex entity that defining it entirely is nearly impossible. Design is everywhere. In the design world it is important that we understand what design actually is in terms of our role with it. I actually ended up googling design in class because the discussion was getting frustrating. I have terrible patience. It's something I really need to work on. Regardless, this is an excerpt I found by the Design Council that I felt helped give some clarity to the word: Scientists can invent technologies, manufacturers can make products, engineers can make them function and marketers can sell them, but only designers can combine insight into all these things and turn a concept into something that's desirable, viable, commercially successful and adds value to people's lives. http://www.mech.hku.hk/bse/interdisciplinary/what_is_design.pdf

After that, we watched a TED video starring Sir Ken Robinson. I absolutely loved it! He challenges your thoughts and also structured systems in society like public education. I hadn't thought about it the way he put it, but after leaving class it left my mind in a whirl. I'm still mulling over his statements in my mind. One that stuck out to me was, "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original". This theory kept turning in my head. What does he mean by this? Perhaps it's that society likes normalcy and what is normal is essentially right, however, if something is different and strays away from the norm it seems wrong. Yet, some of the best inventions occur from initially being wrong. Or this could go along with the saying that some of the worst mistakes turn into some of the best ideas. Also, there was more he talked about that made me realize how much we go about our lives without questioning the system. So my take away from this was to never stop questioning and also if you're truly passionate about something, then do it!

Day 17 - Storyboard for Final Project

During this class we worked on developing our final projects and mapped them out on a storyboard. That way our ideas were more concrete and when they're on paper the execution is more feasible. This is because all details are fine-tuned & all aspects of a creative brief are answered. We obviously did this to really solidify what exactly we're going to to with our projects. I already had mine mapped out in my head but putting it on paper made it clear. Also, I spent most of this time looking for the right music to go along w/my video. It was a very productive day.

In the design world, almost every company uses story boards because of the reasons I stated earlier.

Day 16 - 3 shot story w/magazines

During this class, we looked at everyone's 3 shot stories made by unrelated images found in magazines. We first had to guess what the story was without knowing the actual story intended. Some of them were easy to identify & others not so successful. Also, we tried different arrangements to see if we could come up with a more interesting story. After looking at everyone else's we combined them & picked out then put together completely different stories.

I think we did this because it was an exercise to see how creative we can become and also to show how unrelated things can link. This is beneficial in the design world because a lot of the time the most unexpected ideas can be the best.

Day 15 - 3 Shot Story

Today in class we were divided into 8 groups of 3 and were instructed to sketch out a story that can be communicated using only 3 frames. Afterward we hung them up & voted on which one visually communicates the best story. I chose the poop one because if was easily read and was different/funny. It definitely should have won. My group dud a Quentin Tarantino type of sketch and I really liked ours as well, but agreed some parts could be improved to increase its readability. I think we did this because it helps us recognize what parts of a story are important to show when given a limited amount of frames. This definitely applies in the design world because it reminds me of the consideration advertisers have to take whether it be a teaser, movie preview, magazine ad, poster, etc. If you think about, only a limited space is available and they have to decide what exactly NEEDS to be shown to convey the idea and what can be cut out.

At the end of class, the final project was introduced and I'm really excited about it because its about sustainability. I already have an idea of what I'm going to do, but it's a surprise.

Day 14 - Creative Briefs

This class we began by playing a communication game. All of us sat in a circle, then had to correctly communicate & pass along an object. I wasn't too fond of this game, simply because it took too long & was far too perplexing for my brain to handle that early in the morning with such little sleep. Perhaps, I also didn't care for this game as much because it requires one to listen & stay focused. Lately, that has been a great feat for me. I also noticed the different ways we communicate as far as enunciations, body language and tone. I think we did this exercise to recognize the differences in communication styles and to also emphasize the importance of listening. This applies in the design world because listening to your client & vice versa us crucial. If you can't understand what they're looking for, then how can you go about executing their idea properly.

The second half of class we looked over examples of creative briefs. All of them very different, but equally beneficial. This was very helpful because one, I had no idea what a creative brief was and two, it was nice to see actual representations of what one would look like. These are great because its something on paper that serves as a communication device between both client and designer. It's sort of a contract and shows them what your interpretation is. Sometimes written form is easier to understand especially because many artists have scattered/jumbled thoughts and to set them in a clear and concise way can help both parties. This was obviously done and shown to us because eventually we will have to either make or read creative briefs in the design world, depending on what part if the design spectrum we're on. So knowing that they are and how they work is key.

Thanks for listening,
Ruby

Day 13 - Game Design Critique Cont'd

Today in class we started off by creating an orchestra. We did so by having each of us create a different sound & repeat it until a whole jumble of noises came together. I wouldn't exactly say our orchestra was that successful and needless to say our music wasn't anything near a symphony, but it was fun. To be honest, I'm not quite sure what the purpose of this exercise was. It was quite odd. Perhaps, it was supposed to be a metaphor for the fact that if we all work together we can create something beautiful. Well in our case, "interesting" might be the better word. Regardless, I think a lit of these exercises have brought us closer as a group. This class emphasizes group interaction more than any other I've ever taken.

After our mini orchestra, we went on to critique the remaining game designs. Although I hate to say it and maybe it's because I was suffering from lack of sleep that day, but I could hardly understand any of the games presented. I think I generally tend towards games that aren't as complex. Not that I'm a simple-minded person, I just feel as though games are a sense of release and I already do so much critical thinking in other parts of my life, so why strain my brain any more? Also, I realize that I like competitive games where there IS a winner and loser of a game. When someone presented a game w/o these key components, in my head I was like, "Pfft... This is not a game". Perhaps to others it is, I personally would not want to play it though. Also, during presentations I picked up on a few things. It's best not to leave a really drawn-out, awkward silence because it makes everyone feel uncomfortable.

Overall, I think this day taught me to consider what aspects of a game make them interesting. More specifically, why would I want to play this game? This helps me in my own game design and I should probably let others see it to get alternate opinions. If they don't want to play the game, then what's the point?

This activity was good because its always a learning and growing experience. In the design world, this can be applied because it shows us that getting various opinions on a concept can help shape and perfect an idea even more.

Day 12 - Game Design Critique

Today in class we presented our game concepts to the class and had them evaluated. Jimmy talked for an extensive amount on each one so we didn't get through all of them, but we still gained from the ones seen. Not only were we looking at the game concept itself, but also how it was presented. I learned my own presentation style was enthusiastic and felt like I was having a conversation w/the audience, but at times got too personal and when that happens I lose my rationale. I totally get that because sometimes I do get so enveloped in my work that because I love it so much, I want everyone else to. Also, I realized I needed to think out my moving device more and design it in such a way that it makes sense to the reader/viewer.

Apart from my own praises/criticisms, it was good to see others present and learn what and what not to do. For example, speed is something to take into consideration in regards to talking rate. Another was not to insult or argue with the audience/client. Also, that if proposed a question, it may be wise too take a moment to let that question sink in and then answer instead of giving some ridiculous response that only ruins your credibility. There was also the fact that taking into consideration who your audience is and their knowledge on the topic matters so it's crucial to shape your presentation in such a way that they would understand it, had they have no experience with your subject.

In terms of design, I learned that typography can be crucial because it may read a completely different way and set up an idea in ones head that leads in another direction. Also, taking into consideration that we read left to right so placement is key. A good corresponding title matters as well. There are a few other points that we picked up on, but those were the main ones that stuck out to me.

I think we did this because it was obviously a huge growing experience. I'm actually very grateful for it, because I don't think I even got this much feedback on my presentations from even my required speech class. Honestly, I would much rather hear what I'm doing wrong so it gives me an opportunity to fix it. In the design world, presentation skills are essential because we're constantly shooting an idea to a client and if those skills are the lack there of then one can expect to not generate a lot of revenue.

Day 11 Game Designs

Today we spent the entire class looking at everyone's 9 different game design ideas. We ultimately ran out of time and was not able to cover everyones, but by getting the gist of what a successful game design was and the latter, it will help us shape our own design for the assignment given. Some of the things I picked up on were things like is the design to complex or too simple. If it was too complex, I wouldn't want to play it, but if it was too simple than it would be boring. Also, layout and pieces of the game are important factors as well. Dice seemed to be the go-to device in most peoples concepts, but there are infinite alternatives that could make a game that much better. I think overall innovation is a key thing to look at when considering different options for a game. Sofia's idea for the game, Icebreaker, where it was a game of a bunch mini games incorporated enticed me the most and I think it was because it was so different.

I think we did this exercise to help further develop and edit our own designs into better successes. This applies in the design world because by looking at other successes and failures, it helps within our own designs.

Day 10 - Game Day

Last class we were instructed to each bring in a game to play. So for the entire class we got to play games. This all seemed quite silly of course and I questioned, "what learning experience am I really supposed to get out of this?" I wasn't going to argue though because I love playing games. I tend to have a very competitive mindset. I got to play 2 games. The first was catchphrase. In this game, you're split up into teams and within each team they are supposed to guess what is on the card by having their teammate describe it without saying the actual word. The game is also timed and is a slight spin-off of hot potato because whoever has the device in their hand when the buzzer goes off loses that turn and not get to move ahead whole the opposing team does.

It was funny, because originally we didn't understand the complete rules of the game so if wasn't nearly as engaging. We didn't realize the hot potato portion until after half way in we decided to google the official rules. My team lost, but not by much. After considering what it took to design this game, I see now that the physical appearance is very simple and I actually think it could be improved on. The concept, however, is fantastic. It's a very exciting guessing game that becomes quite humorous because the human brain spits out nonsense when put under pressure w/time.

The second game I played was Trouble and I love this game. The objective of Trouble is to get all 4 of your pegs into the home spot by pressing the rolling device to move your pieces, while avoiding opponents. Rolling a 1 or a 6 gets you out of start and 6 allows you to also roll again. If an opposing player lands on your position they kick you out and then brings you back to start. I was much farther ahead in the beginning of the game, so the other three wanted to gang up on me and stop from winning so at least one OC them had s chance. At the end, the game became closer, but regardless, I still won!(pats self in back and does happy dance)

When considering the design of this game, the idea is great. It brings out a huge competitiveness in a player and requires them to strategize their priorities. The physical design is functional. There are 4 different colors which represent the different players and there is a bubble type device that which you press on to roll the dice. This is partly smart because dice are easy to lose, but if it is enclosed in such a structure that possibility is virtually obsolete.

I think we were given this assignment because by thinking about the design of a game, it causes us to consider what makes it a success and what can be improved on. This is beneficial for the design world because when creating something new, all aspects should be tended to. Not only the idea, but the layout, pieces, visual appearance, etc. are all important components. This can be applied not only in game design, but others as well.

Day 9 - Mind Maps

Today we watched a slideshow on mind maps and its intention was to show us that putting ideas out on paper gets the brain flowing. This is a great solution for artists block. I can't tell you how many times I would need to be creatively-inspired to get a project done, yet my mind draws a blank. By using questions like who, what, where, why, when, and how, it helps break down the problem into smaller bits. If you figure out one piece of the puzzle, it's easier to find another and the process escalates until you have a fantastic and complete idea at the end.

I chose the topic if aliens in your bed and it was interesting to see that by changing one portion of either if the questions can completely alter the tone/mood of the story. For example, if the alien was there to abduct me, a frightening essence would settle in. Yet, on the contrary, if the roommate happened to be my lover than it would be no surprise at all, it would be more of a shock had he not been in my bed.

I think we did this exercise because it helps us get out of those ruts when designing and definitely helps facilitate our creative process.

Day 8 - Competencies

Today in class we split up into groups to discuss the Designer of 2015 Competencies provided by AIGA. There were 13 of them and had to break each one down. Jimmy told us that #8 was the most important and it read, "Understanding of how systems behave and aspects that contribute to sustainable products, strategies and practices". At first, thought I had a good grasp of this concept, but when I was questioned further about it, I realized I didn't fully understand it. After digging deeper, I soon learned that the word, "systems", was referring to behavioral systems like a bee colony or a social system with humans. It makes sense that this should be understood especially in the design world because when conjuring up a solution for a problem, it's great practice to consider the system or audience one is addressing. For example, it would make too much sense to put a high-end designer clothing store in a low-economic community such as Compton. This is because within that system that resides there, designer clothing isn't at the top if their priority list, nor could they probably afford it. This is just one example, but there are several others.

I think we went over these concepts because knowing and understanding them helps us become better designers. I also feel as though it helps us realize the bigger picture when designing, rather than designing for ourselves in our own small scope.

Day 7: Designing for Simplicity

Today in class we split up into groups & discussed our answers for the previous day's questions. To be honest, I don't think I really got much out of this because what most people shared wasn't really how they felt. It was easy to tell, not everyone was completely open or perhaps didn't dig deep enough to give a sufficient answer. Yet, what can I expect? Most people don't like to be put into a vulnerable situation such as that. I know this, because there were quite a few that wanted to be skipped. It's apparent that not a lot of people like to talk about themselves, unless you're a narcissist like myself lol.

Why did we do this? Hmm... Perhaps it was to gain insight on how others communicate within group settings. At least that's a little of what I took from it. Or it could also be a sense of relief because a lot of us are experiencing some of the same thoughts/feelings. Maybe this was supposed to be like group therapy.

Any who, I'd rather discuss my more enjoyable part of the class which was the TED video w/John Maeda. He was quite entertaining. I watched the video over again to refresh my memory on certain segments. There are a ton of things I could expand on in his speech, but I did note that his technique is to use several comparisons. My favorite comparison was the cookie & laundry one. Never would I ever pair the two, but both so symbolic in meaning & all too true. I loved it. I think the take away from watching this is to keep things light or simple as John might say. Also, he did mention vacationing as a beneficial entity. This seems to be a recurring theme within the videos we're shown. Are you trying to tell us something, Jimmy?

I think we were shown this video because as designers, sometimes we so often overlook things and may over design. Sometimes things can be, if not more, beautiful in its simplest form.

Thanks for listening,
Ruby

Day 6 - Fear-based reactions & creative process

Q#1: Answer: I'd say I have a couple fear-based reactions. One of them was my decision to leave my small hick town & move out to the big city & go to school in L.A. Many people thought I was crazy cause the people in L.A. are so rude(stereotype) & the traffic is horrible. Also, I found my roommate off of Craigslist & a lot of people were scared for me cause she could be a serial killed or some type of psychopath. Regardless of all these doubts, I pushed through it & did it anyway because I knew its where I belonged. I originally wanted to work in the fashion magazine industry, but now I'm leaning towards fitness mags. Either way, I feel as though living down here will open a lot more opportunities than had I stayed.

Another fear-based reaction from myself is a little bit of the fear of graduating. I think it simply has to do w/the feeling of accomplishing something so great, and then there's that "now what?" It just seems like there's so much pressure & expectation for graduates to start a career after school, yet in all reality, most don't start a career right away. Also, there's the fact that in the industry I want to work In, internships are crucial & I don't have time while I'm in school & working to add something else on my plate.

Q#2: Answer: I've successfully overcome the reactions to the first one because I'm still living here today & it will be 2 years this September. I don't plan on moving back either.

As far as graduating, I really need to have a sit-down w/my dept. adviser & map out how much I have left. Then at some point start looking ip internships that maybe I can do over summer.

Q#3: Answer: My concept of my creative process is that it is unique to myself, because I'm a little zany. Although, most art majors are a little crazy.

Q:4: Answer: My approach as far as creative process goes usually depends on the task. If I'm über excited about something, then I'll dive into it right away. However, on the contrary, if its something I'm not too crazy about, I admit procrastination takes a toll. Also, the best environment for me is alone, in my room w/Pandora playing. I do notice a lot of time if I have a project in mind, I'll pull from ideas that surround me. Like taking a walk in the park & noticing a bird in flight & it's swift elegance & then so incorporating that into my piece. Just an example of course.

Day 5 - Creative Visualization

To start off class, we flipped a coin to determine if we we're going to go over the homework first or do a creative visualization exercise. What's funny is that once Jimmy was given the coin, he started analyzing it & went off on a completely different tangent. He began discussing the design on the back of the quarter. Each state has a different representation on this specific currency. To be honest, I never really took much consideration of what exactly was on the back of a quarter. So when Jimmy asked us what we would put on the back or what represents California, I just threw out random ideas cause I honestly didn't know what was on our current one. I decided to google it, just out if curiosity. I was surprised to find that John Muir, along with Yosemite & some sort of bird flying is what is actually on the quarter for California. I also found a different version or perhaps mock-up of what could have been on there, which was the Hollywood sign & the Golden Gate Bridge. Those 2 were actually some ideas I threw out there. Someone else must have had the same idea as myself. Ultimately, I felt this was a good practice because it causes is to think about not only what our interpretation is if something, but when designing something for a client, we must take into consideration who our audience is or who we're designing for.

The next activity had Jimmy read us a story, having us focus only on the words he was saying w/closed eyes. At the end of the story we come to a door w/our name on it & then open it up. Then we were instructed to draw what we saw behind that door. What I saw reminded me of Alice in wonderland. It was pitch black and the only objects within the space were floating. There was a whimsical, stark white staircase leading to god-knows-where. Then there was a large, gold-framed, impressionist painting of flowers in a valley or something. A small clock suspended in the air like everything else and a wooden trap door the very bottom. To be honest, my experience was kind of scary because is this really what goes in in my inner thoughts? On top if that, what does this all really mean? When we went around to look at our other classmates drawings, I realized that I'm a weirdo. Then again, there were a few demented ones too. I think we did this exercise because it shows us, each one of us has completely different ideas. This is a great point because when working in groups, each one of us brings something different to the table. In a studio or collaboration of projects, this can be very beneficial. I liked this assignment, but it definitely made me feel slightly uncomfortable. Perhaps it's because I'm not as in tune w/my inner self or maybe I'm just over thinking it and simply has a weird day-dream.

Thanks for listening,
Ruby

Day 4 Shift Meaning

My thoughts on today's exercises are that it was very interesting and insightful. I especially liked the TED video with Stefan Sagmeister. I went and looked up the video later after class and read a few comments underneath it. One reviewer noted that a sabbatical seems like a great idea, however, it is not as easy to achieve for the average person due to life's responsibilities. I wish I could take a sabbatical. I've always wanted to travel and still yet have not left the states. Some day though I will get to go to Europe and other exotic parts of the world when I have the time and resources to do so. I truly believe it does give someone a different perspective or outlook on life. So many of us are always in a hurry and get so caught up in the hustle & bustle of life we forget and don't take the time to really appreciate the things around us. Lately, I assimilate myself to parts of a machine, constantly turning in a cognitive manner to get the job done, but am still stuck inside not moving forward. I believe we watched this video not only to encourage ourselves to take a step back or show that a break is beneficial in the creative process, but it also showed how whimsical or different one's creative process can be. One may look at a problem and simply move on from it or create a direct/typical solution or could think of way to alter the emotion or reverse the problem by doing something completely out of the ordinary. Yet those extraordinary solutions are in my opinion, the best and almost ingenious in my eyes. It matters because a lot of us are so used to doing things a certain way, by showing us this video, it allows us to question our regular technique. Everyone has a style, it's fairly prominent in their artwork. But perhaps, we could take a break(not necessarily a year) and them come back fresh with new ideas in mind.

In regards to the other activity we explored with viewing an object from a magazine print and then giving that print a phrase to go with it, I felt a little internal struggle. This activity was a little more difficult for me because I so often want to see things in their literal form. Which is somewhat ironic considering the fact that I'm an art student and should be so used to seeing everything from a much more deeper perspective, it's still not the case. An apple is an apple in my eyes, but not with this scenario. An apple could be a home, a briefcase, a paper weight, etc. The assignment given associated with this activity is definitely going to take some time. I suppose this is what goes on in advertising/marketing companies. Developing a concept for a brand is much harder than I thought. It's often in films that a lightbulb will light up in someone's brain and bam! Epic outcome! I hope that same spark hits me over the weekend so this assignment won't take too long. I believe this exercise matters because if some of us want to go into the advertising/marketing industry this will definitely help. Also, not even just those industries but in any work we decided to do, this definitely aids in our ability of coming up with concepts.

Thanks for listening,
Ruby

Day 3 Soooo exhausted

Today in class we did a few activities, some very successful while others lacked. Our first task given was to seat ourselves in chronological order of birth date. We actually managed to do this perfectly. With communication amongst ourselves and organizational skills, this was achieved.

The next project given was to rank our graphic novels from best to worst fitting to a criteria that we all agree upon. The criteria we came up with was broken down into 4 parts. They were "clarity of message", "neatness", "creativity", and "use of color". I agreed with most criteria given except for maybe the neatness portion. I originally said aesthetic appeal, but a peer did not agree with myself because he thought maybe we should consider the fact that some people may not draw as well and that they shouldn't be graded/ranked on such terms. While he is right, I feel as though we are all human and are simply drawn to more aesthetically appealing objects. I think at the end, most of us agreed that the majority of the judging being made was based on aesthetics, especially in the short amount of time we were given to do so. So with that being said, had we been given more time, the rankings would surely change.

Our last event of the day was to get into groups of 4, use what random things you have with you and come up with a story using though those items. I contributed my penguin shaped usb flash drive named, Rupert. He actually ended up being the main character of our story. What's funny is that our story was the only one where noone dies. It was very light-hearted and cheery. The plot was much like that of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. I think all the stories were intertesting.

P.S. I'm tired.

Day 2: Visual Literacy

Today in class we explored many different concepts surrounding the overall idea of visual literacy. I'm not entirely sure if I have the definition correct, but from my taking I believe it is the ability to read/understand something visual. Everyone interprets a picture or image in different ways. The way something is framed or laid out can have a dramatic effect on the viewer's interpretation. Not only that, but the use of color, value, and several other factors will make a difference.

We were given an in-class assignment to draw a comic sequence of 4 in 20 minutes that shows us how/why we got to Cal State LA. I partly struggled with this because I felt as though there are so many different components to what got me here in the first place. How am I to represent that in just 4 little frames? Not only that but in the short time alotted? Looking over my finished product and comparing it to others I realize perhaps that it isn't as clear to a reader that does not know my story. It's clear to me, because well, it's MY story. We're given a second chance to re-do the assignment over the weekend(this time in color). I'm going to have to brainstorm and figure out a way to either a condense or perhaps just pick a certain aspect of what got me here so that the transitions and overall story is much easier read.

Just a little side note: I love the quote in the short film we watched. I think they're great words to live by. "Learn from everyone. Follow no one. Watch for patterns. Work like hell." - Scott McCloud

Thanks for listening,
Ruby

Day 1(January 7, 2012)

Today in my Concept Development class we played a typical "opener" game to break the ice. Each of us were to state three things about ourselves, 2 of which would be truths and one of them being a lie. The goal of the entire class was to try and figure out which of the three was a lie.

What's interesting is that although this game on the surface appears to be completely harmless, I find that I, myself was stereotyping my fellow students to try and figure out the falsification. Of course, I tried to factor in other things for example body language, behavior, pitches in their voice and other things that might clue me in to what exactly was not true, yet ultimately I find myself gravitating towards their appearance as the main component that would lead to my assumption. I felt like such a hypocrite, because I always even say, "Never judge a book by it's cover". Yet, I was doing just that. Not only was I doing it, but I know my peers were doing it as well because when it came my turn, I lied about having a cat. What's funny is that most people did not guess this was the lie. I heard one even say "Oh, she looks like a cat person." Even more ironic is the fact that I despise cats. Furthermore, this leads me into thinking about what story does one tell simply by their appearance. It truly makes a significant difference on how you may come off towards others. That also makes me wonder what does my appearance have to say about me. Just some food for thought I suppose, but I'm glad we had this exercise, it was very insightful. 

Thanks for listening,
Ruby