End of Module Evaluation 405

Overall, I have found this module one of the most enjoyable modules at university so far. I really enjoyed the briefs that were set as they involved a lot of experimentation as it was all about the process of creating a design. I liked that it was all about the process of creating a design, not just about how the design looks in the end and the meaning. I noticed that when doing the set briefs for this module, I tend to research and create physical work both at the same time, rather than to research first and then start creating. I find that doing physical work simultaneously keeps me more motivated and experimental the whole way through the brief.

I found the second brief easier and more enjoyable than the first brief. I found the Cell Phone Symphony brief more challenging than the publication brief because it followed an extremely digital aesthetic of working, I prefer to use methods such as collage and mark making, however I felt that those methods weren't appropriate for the brief. Also because the brief was less than a week long I felt that I didn't have enough time to experiment as much as I'd like, I experimented with a few themes quickly and then just chose the most successful one to develop for my final poster design. However, I did enjoy the tasks that were set on the first day; texting my text door neighbour and working in a group to create designs using our phones.

Furthermore, I enjoyed the second brief a lot more as I was able to experiment with loads of different techniques for each publication. I felt that I could use the methods that I personally enjoyed rather than working just digitally. I also think my ideas changed a lot throughout this brief; at first I was planning on taking forward the 26 characters publication as my final publication but after the group critique with Ben we decided that it would be best for me to take forward the Fanzine Factory publication and develop it in an identity zine. I feel that this was 100% the right decision as it matched my working aesthetic a lot more (collaging, mark making, combing different techniques, vibrant and wacky designs) which is why the final outcome was successful; I really enjoyed making the zine. I was also able to research into loads of new and different designers, as well as my favourite ones.

In conclusion, I think that this module has been really useful as I learnt loads of new things which include 3 different book binding methods, photography skills and effects and the importance of certain paper stocks for different publications as well as size consideration. I also did workshop outside of studio time where I was taught how to use the laser cutter, I found the workshop really fun and would definitely like to experiment with it for the next module if its relevant. I will definitely take forward the skills that I have learnt in this module, as well as signing up to more workshops so that I have loads of ideas for experimentation when starting a brief.