VCM1101

Visual thinking and communication

6 points - 4 studio hours and 8 independent study hours - First semester - Berwick - Prerequisites: none - Corequisites: none - Prohibitions: none.

Objectives On successful completion of this subject, students should be able competently to represent objects by drawing, expressing form and volume and demonstrating a basic understanding of visual structure; use their understanding of the relationships between the formal elements of line, tone and shape in composition and basic design; understand an appropriate range of drawing methods and materials pertinent to the study; visualise and express this ability through appropriate forms of notation; understand some of the theoretical and psychological issues that provide the context for a chosen visual language; and recognise the range of drawing processes, media, styles and sign systems and their application.

Synopsis Through a sequence of exercises that use the human figure and natural and made objects, skills in observation, representation, visualisation and basic design organisation, students acquire practical and intellectual skills. Individual interpretation and response is encouraged to facilitate the development of students' drawing skills and visual and aesthetic awareness.

Assessment Studio work:70% - Project work: 30%

Recommended texts

De Saumerez M Basic design: The dynamics of visual form TAB Books, 1990
Goldstein N The art of responsive drawings Prentice-Hall, 1992
Kaupelis R Experimental drawings Pitman House, 1980
Simpson I The Encyclopedia of drawing techniques Headline, 1987
Wong W Principles of form and design Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1993

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