Final Compilation & Reflection

03/02/2025 - 17/03/2025 (Week 1 - Week 7) 

Shema Goldie Angwen / 0372129 

Design Principles GCD60804
Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Final Compilation & Reflection

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JUMP LINKS TO ALL TASK POSTS

• Task 1: Exploration
• Task 2: Visual Analysis & Ideation
• Task 3: Development and Design

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FINAL ARTWORK

Figure 1.1: < Shema Goldie Angwen_The Timeless Grace of a Rose_Task 3 >

Rationale 200 words

The decision made in your design

I decided to chose the first idea, darken the background into a more muted color, leading attention to the woman and astrolabe as the focal point of the artwork. I also added falling rose petals and rose-shaped ring to emphasize the title more and add connection between the woman and the rose. This modification aim to enhance the original piece without removing its core message.

 

The meaning/purpose of the design

The astrolabe conveys the passage of time and the importance of each moment. The falling rose petals symbolize the passing of time. The woman's serene and calm expression enhances the theme, explaining the harmony with the flow of time. Together, these elements combined beautifully creating a sense of tranquility while encouraging viewers to contemplate the beauty in life's impermanence. 

The design principles that are employed to create the design

Contrast: I decided to make the background into more muted color. This contrast leads the viewer's eye to the main parts of the artwork.

Balance: The placement of roses on both sides of the woman's face and the one in her hand creates a sense of balance. 

Emphasis: The 'spotlight' effect highlights on the woman's face, the roses, and the astrolabe, making them the most noticeable parts of the artwork. 

Movement: The falling petals create a sense of movement and give a touch of lively. It conveys the idea of 'time passing by' which fits well with the astrolabe's symbolism of time.

Unity and Harmony: The combination of colour and the composition of the elements create a sense of connection, making the design look pleasing. 

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REFLECTION

What have I learnt in this module?
In this module, I have learned not just about design principles themselves but also how to apply design principles to a real artwork. I've come to realize just how important design principles are in shaping effective designs. Overall, I really enjoyed this task, as it pushed me to think creatively and find ways to enhance an already good design. 

What did I enjoy the most? What did I not enjoy the most?
The part I enjoyed the most was working in Photoshop, because I find it exciting to bring my ideas to life. The part that I found quite challenging is the process of thinking how to develop this artwork that is already really good since the artwork was created by a professional artist. I was worried about making it worse instead of enhancing it. However, I've found that stepping out of my comfort zone and exploring new and out of the box ideas has helped me overcome this fear.

What have I learnt about myself through this module? 

I have noticed significant growth in my design thinking and skills, especially in Photoshop. I have been experimenting on my own to learn new techniques and apply them to this project. 

What has changed and what has not in my learning journey? 

One thing that hasn't really changed is my feeling that I'm not yet proficiet enough in using Adobe Software. Even though I have learned some tools and techniques, I still don't feel fully confident and I am striving to improve. To overcome this problem, I have made it a habit to watch YouTube tutorials to learn new skills in Adobe Software. 

What are my aspirations?
My aspiration is to create designs that aren't just ordinary but are always out of the box, something people haven't thought of before. I want my work to always have a difference and stand out with every piece I create.