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Semester I

Semester IV


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Computer Graphics Four

DSN1535 — Building on computer skills learned in Computer Graphics II, students learn to use the advanced and powerful features of Adobe Illustrator. Tools, strokes and fills, layers and type manipulation are reviewed. Advanced topics learned, include: working with patterns, using style palettes, masking, advanced use of gradients, special techniques using the transformation tools, output techniques, creating customized graphs, exporting your illustration to other software applications, and file formats.

TOPIC VALUE WEEK
Welcome: Introduction to Illustrator -- 1
Tapestry Design (Transform Tools) 10% 2
African Advocacy Campaign 20% 3-6
Menu Design - Type in Illustrator 20% 6-8
Wired Magazine Layout 20% 8-11
Event Poster Design 20% 11-14
Automation 5% 14
Apple Pro Tips 5% --
TOTAL 100%  

File Release Checklist

Download the file.

This file is presented as a guide to the student who is handing in a project in the Graphic Design program. If you deviate from the specifications below, make sure your are comforming to the teacher’s instructions. Otherwise, make sure that a stranger could make sense of what your are handing in.


Presentation Standards

Download the file.

When handing in assignments, it is imperative that students maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and accuracy. Please see the file for specifics.


WHAT'S ON THE MENU

First Class

Today we'll do a fly-over of the semester in Computer Graphics Three. You'll get a peak at each assignment, it's goals and grade value. We will also launch Illustrator CS5 to see what's new. The interface has been modified, so we'll play with panels, palettes and more.


SAY CHEESE!

Photo Please

DesignSchool.ca : Take a photo of yourself and send it to me. I would like you to take a clear photo of yourself during class. We'll use Photo Booth to take the photo. The goal is to get to know you as quickly as possible. We need to see your face clearly, but feel free to be creative.

Name your file by your name, including any name you would like to be used. As an example, I would use Alain "Al" Paradis, because I want you to call me Al. Got it? Good.

I'll show you how to copy the photo to my Drop Box over the network.


KEY POINTS

On The Board for Today

Download file #1

  • Why Illustrator?
  • Vector Graphics
  • Understanding Paths
  • Fills Strokes
  • Selections Stacking
  • Isolation Mode
  • Welcome Screen
  • Document Profiles
  • Multiple Art boards
  • Libraries Content
  • Illustrator Templates
 

 

Download file #2

  • Exploring Panels
  • Navigating Documents
  • Rulers Guides
  • Using Grids
  • Bounding Box
  • Smart Guides
  • Hide Edges
  • Preview Outline
  • Using Workspaces
  • Modifier Keys
  • Object Group Layer

THE KEYS TO SPEED

Modifier Keys

These are the equivalent modifier keys for both platforms.

DesignSchool.ca : Modifyer Keys


Time On Your Hands?

Wear your earphones. Keep your friends.


KULER THAN KOOL

Register Your Colours

Working with colour palettes has never been as easy as it is now, with Kuler. Adobe Creative Suite 4 now integrates this magnificent colour palette development tool right into each of its applications. Adobe have built a fantastic community of designers who contribute colour libraries for you to use free of charge. Ain't life great?

Today, you'll register for an Adobe ID (for free) to gain access to Kuler.

GET MAC SAVVY

Apple Pro Tips

Every week two students will be given one software tip to share with the class. At the start of the next class, they will use the teacher's computer and projector to demonstrate what they have learned about the feature.

Your mini-lesson can last only a few minutes. A lengthy explanation is not necessary. Thoroughness is what's important. You can feel free to give peripheral information. You don't need to stick to only what is explained on the tip web page.


VIDEO TOOTS

Video Library via RSS

We're going to kick off the semester with a bit of the boob tube. The RSS feed is actually the easiest way to view the videos. The videos listed on this page contain tutorials created by Adobe themselves. They cover all facets of Illustrator CS5.

You can also point your browser here. Layers Magazine is a great source for Illustrator tutorials.

Listen in

In-Ear In Class

DesignSchool.ca : Bring your earphones to class

Please bring a pair of earphones to every class this semester. You'll be using many video tutorials during the semester.

It's best not to use noise-cancelling phones. You still want to hear what's going on in class.