DESIGN PRINCIPLES - FINAL COMPILATION
9/2/26 - 25/3/26 (Week 2 - Week 7)
Nicole Ng Ying Yan 0382412
GCD60804 Design Principles
Final Compilation
TABLE OF CONTENT
2.0 FINAL SUBMISSION
Useful Idiooot_Nicole Ng Ying Yan_Task 3
Rationale
Design Decisions
My artwork was designed with the intention to convey a political message inspired by the transitional track 'Useful Idiot' by the rock band, Tool. The track features static noise from a vinyl needle, so I used a blood-stained vinyl record to symbolise having blood on one's hands through political actions. The paragraph text is mostly redacted, revealing only key words to reflect how politics lacks transparency and consistently targets innocent people. The scattered, falling typography of "Useful Idiot" represents citizens who are manipulated by political agendas and ultimately suffer the heaviest consequences. A faded blood stain beneath the vinyl suggests this exploitation is not new and has happened before, leaving its mark. Finally, layered textures give the design a worn, discarded quality, symbolising how such a critical subject is too often trivialised and dismissed.
Meaning/ Purpose
The purpose of this artwork is to spread political awareness, particularly in the context of current world affairs. Corruption and injustice are pervasive global issues, and art serves as a powerful medium to shed light on these realities. Inspired by a soundtrack that carries the same message, this artwork bridges music and visual art for viewers to experience its impact through both sight and sound, creating a more profound and lasting impression.
Design Principles
1. Word & Image
Text and visuals work together to reinforce the political message. The redacted paragraph and scattering heading complement the blood-stained vinyl imagery.
2. Golden Ratio
The artwork uses the golden ratio composition to guide placement of key elements, creating a naturally balanced and visually pleasing layout.
3. Emphasis
The red blood stains on the vinyl draw immediate attention, standing out against the muted, monotone palette of the artwork.
4. Movement
The scattered arrangement of the "Useful Idiot" typography creates a sense of falling.
5. Alignment
Both the paragraph text and heading are right-aligned, creating a consistent visual anchor on the right side of the artwork.
6. Hierarchy
The viewers' eye is naturally guided from the bold red vinyl at the top, to the falling typography, and finally to the redacted text. This visual flow creates a reading order that progressively unfolds the artwork's narrative.
7. Unity & Harmony
Consistent use of muted tones, red accents, and layered textures ties all the elements together to maintain cohesiveness.
3.0 REFLECTION
What have I learnt in this module?
From this module, I got to learn more in depth about the theory on elements and principles of design. I also learnt how to intentionally apply these design principles into my artwork instead of blindly following my own feeling. This module helped me to understand how to make the different visual elements work well together.
What did I enjoy the most?
I really enjoyed Task 3 the most where I actually start to design the poster. I liked experimenting different text placements and texture layers for the artwork. I felt satisfied when I saw how each visual elements slowly come together as one when layered on top of each other.
What did I not enjoy the most?
Personally, I did not find the sketching the most enjoyable. I usually do not follow the standard design process and like to dive in straight away into the actual design and make revisions as I go. Ironically I am self aware of this habit and also in the process of trying to change it. Hence, it was a bit hard during the starting point when I have to sketch not only one, but at least 3 sketches. However, the process afterwards went smoothly after the sketching stage.
What have I learnt about myself through this module?
I realised I am not really font of creating illustrations myself. When choosing which artwork to revise on, my scope had always focused on graphic design artworks instead of illustrations, whereas a lot of my peers chose to revise on illustration artworks. I learnt that I prefer organising layout, typography, and images instead of drawing by hand.
What has changed and what has not in my learning journey?
One thing that has changed is that I try to practice a more thoughtful and intentional design approach through applying design principles that are suitable. As for things that has not changed, I guess it's my habit of not sketching before starting the actual design process and I will try my best to following the correct design process framework.
What are my aspirations?
I hope to further improve my design skills and produce more artworks that can inspire and evoke a feeling or a thought. I also hope to further develop my creativity and create artworks that are not only fun but also functional.
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