ART 214: Introduction to Digital Media
St. Mary's College of Maryland, St. Mary's City, MD
Fall 2014
This course was an introduction to the fundamental concepts, tools and techniques of digital art. Formal and creative problems were explored through the use of computer software (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Dreamweaver) and hardware. Critiques of digital art and discussion of issues in contemporary digital media were a central focus of this course. [syllabus]
Adobe Photoshop Exercise - Using only non-destructive editing techniques, create a 6" x 4.25" postcard at 300 ppi. It must combine at least 4 images as a montage, with each modified with a different effect (adjustment layer or smart filter).
Project 1: Photoshop - This project explores the concept of hybrid imagery. Using digital photographs, create 2 high-resolution prints in which images are spliced together to form new amalgamations. Starting off with a specific concept, issue or idea, students will create images that when juxtaposed together demonstrate a new form of understanding or unique point of view. The subject may be issue-based, political, theoretic, or fantastical. The resulting product may be realistic, highly stylized, or abstract. [prompt]
Adobe Illustrator Exercise - Using the pen, pencil, and/or basic shape tools, create a vector self-portrait. The final image will consist exclusively of fill, no strokes. A successful project will accurately create the illusion of volume and depth. File dimensions: 18 inches by 24 inches.
Project 2: Illustrator - In this project, you will try your hand at challenging dominant meanings by practicing subvertising, a form of culture jamming. Identify dominant cultural meanings that you find problematic, an example would be the meanings associated with "masculinity" or "patriotism." Then find images online that seem to reinforce these problematic meanings. Your job is to remix those images or add content of your own in order to subvert the original message. [prompt]
Project 3: Dreamweaver - Create a work of art that is hosted on a website, incorporating the skills learned thus far in Photoshop, Illustrator, and Dreamweaver. Develop interactive content and demonstrate the communication and design skills you have acquired in this course. [prompt]
