Study-Unit Description

Study-Unit Description


CODE DGA1004

 
TITLE Introduction to Text and Image

 
UM LEVEL 01 - Year 1 in Modular Undergraduate Course

 
MQF LEVEL 5

 
ECTS CREDITS 6

 
DEPARTMENT Digital Arts

 
DESCRIPTION This study-unit is an in-depth exploration of two fundamental elements of graphic design: typography and image. ‘Mark-making’ and ‘image-making’ are core aspects of all design disciplines and thus a better knowledge of their communicative potential enhances an individual’s creative practice. The study-unit provides an understanding of how abstract ideas are given tangible, visual forms through the use of an intricate set of characters. The students will become familiar with the development of the written alphabet and the anatomical properties of particular letterforms through extensive typographic experiments. Language, letters and indeed typography develop and adapt over time and this dynamic evolution is a core theme of the study-unit. The module also exposes the students to the essentials of visual communication and the potential of the image throughout the ages. The aim of the study-unit is to extend learners’ understanding of visual imagery as a means of communication, including the codes used in different cultures. Students will be invited to explore the importance of elements of visual imagery such as style, genre, narrative and juxtaposition. The study-unit will also feature print and digital considerations when using type and image.

Study-unit Aims:

- Lay the foundations of visual communication;
- Encourage the students to experiment with different typographic treatments;
- Give students the required skills in the effective use of text and image;
- Provide students with essential guidelines when using text and image;
- Expose the students to contemporary typographers and visual artists.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Knowledge & Understanding:

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- communicate creatively through the use of text and image;
- exploit the power of symbols and metaphorical signs;
- implement typographic theory in design projects;
- understand the cultural implications visual imagery.

2. Skills:

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- manipulate text and image effectively;
- capture and process images for specific purposes;
- use the appropriate style and format according to the nature of the project;
- produce creative and imaginative visual communication aimed at a variety of audiences.

Reading List

Ambrose, G., Harris, P. (2011) Basics Design 03: Typography. Ava Publishing.
Ambrose, G., Harris, P. (2011) The Fundamentals of Typography. AVA Publishing.
Ambrose, G., Harris, P. (2005) Basics Design 04: Image. Ava Publishing.
Bringhurst, R. (1992) The Elements of Typographic Style. Hartley & Marks Publishers.
Carter, R., Day, B., Meggs, P.B. (2011) Typographic Design –Form and Communication. John Wiley & Sons.
Crow, D. (2006) Left to Right: The Cultural Shift from Words to Pictures. AVA Publishing.
Donaldson, T. (2008) Shapes for Sounds. Mark Batty Publishers.
Felici, J. (2002) The Complete Manual of Typography. Adobe Press.
Garfield, S. (2011) Just My Type. Profile Books.
Lupton, E. (2010) Thinking with Type – A Critical Guide. Princeton Architectural Press.

Other journal articles related to the topic will be made available on the study-unit e-Learning website.

 
STUDY-UNIT TYPE Lectures, Studio Practice and Practicum

 
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component/s Assessment Due Sept. Asst Session Weighting
Sketchbook SEM1 Yes 20%
Portfolio SEM1 Yes 80%

 
LECTURER/S Malcolm Bonello

 

 
The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints.
Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice.
It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2023/4. It may be subject to change in subsequent years.

https://www.um.edu.mt/course/studyunit