Abstract:

New techniques and innovative ideas are facilitated through an openness in problem-solving. The presentation and paper discusses the process and outcome of using a three dimensional approach in the study of graphic design, a largely two dimensional discipline. The third dimension is unchartered territory for most graphic design students as well as many professionals and, accordingly, is often considered an uneasy direction for graphic designers to explore. Nevertheless, a note of unfamiliarity generally fosters a fresh perspective and unexpectedness in design.

This examination concerns a newly developed graphic design course and is recounted as a case study. In the first phase of the course, students create physical, three dimensional letterform objects. Content and materials are selected by the students, based on their individual interests. The main objective of this phase is for students to develop creative skills (thinking and making) in three dimensions while building upon their knowledge of typography. Then the project moves beyond the construction of these letterform objects. Students return to the two dimensional realm through the making of contextual pieces and other support collateral such as process diagrams and charts, fonts, specimen posters and, in one case, storyboard and animation. This turning point encourages students to regard their letterform objects not just as final pieces, but as a resource for print design, typeface design, and moving image.

The following diverse materials were used to create the letterform objects: tonic water and a black lightbulb, highlighter ink, sugar, flora, curled paper, hangers, rubber bands, seashells, nylons, mirrors, a laser and fog machine. The resulting projects are inventive, strongly compelling, and will be illustrated in the presentation.