DART 120 - Commercial Design I

3 Credit: (1 lecture, 2 lab, 0 clinical) 3 Contact Hours: [Pre- or co-requisite: ARTS 140 ]

This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of Graphic Design. Through a process that involves research, conceptualization and synthesis of ideas, students will understand the elements and principles of design, creative and expressive typography, page layout and the manipulation of digital images through various mediums. Emphasis will be given to the importance of presentation and craftsmanship as it pertains to practical application of the real world scenarios.
Semesters Offered: fall and spring semesters

Course Goals/ Objectives/ Competencies:
Goal 1: Evaluate history of graphic design.

Compare artistic styles throughout history.
Identify attributes of graphic design that are still in use today.
Identify changing consumer needs.
Describe intent of artwork.
Describe how aesthetics impact intent of artwork.
Evaluate historical marketing campaigns.
Evaluate current marketing campaigns.

Goal 2: Understand Elements and Principals of Design.

Identify basic concepts of design.
Explain basic concepts of design.
Apply concepts to own artwork.

Goal 3: Analyze graphic typography.

Identify types of fonts.
Evaluate strength of font to graphic.
Evaluate strength of font to company image.
Evaluate strength of font to message.

Goal 4: Apply basic design software.

Describe basic functions of design software.
Employ basic functions of design software.
Describe design software tools and functions.
Apply design software tools and functions.

Goal 5: Evaluate own artistic ideals.

Appraise graphic works of art.
Compare artistic ideals with others.
Explain personal aesthetic values.