Illustration and Visual Narrative - Exercises

Ruchira Nowreen || 0347111
Major: Bachelor of Software Engineering || Minor: Creative Media Design || Taylor's University
Illustration & Visual Narrative 

Task 1A / Exercises 

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Week 2 || 5.9.2023

In the second week of the course, we delved into the Bezier Game as part of our learning experience. Following that, our task was to trace the shapes featured in the Vormator challenge.  The pen tool was employed for this exercise, and various techniques for using the pen tool were taught in class. I applied these techniques to trace the shapes shown below.

Figure 1: Vormator shapes provided in class

Figure 2: Vormator shapes traced out

Week 3 || 12.9.2023

In Week 3 of the course, our focus shifted to the exploration of Chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow in visual arts. Additionally, we were introduced to essential tools in Adobe Illustrator, namely the Knife tool, Pathfinder tool and the Shape Builder tool, enhancing our proficiency in shaping and manipulating visual elements.

To further refine our skills, we were the provided with this image to carry on the practice sessions.

Figure 3: Image provided in class

As part of the exercise, a reference or example was provided to guide us in executing the required tasks. This example likely served as a visual reference to illustrate the expected outcome or demonstrate the techniques and approaches to be employed during the exercise.

Figure 4: The example of usage pathfinder and knife tool

Working process:

Step 1: Begin by inserting the image of the pear and set it as a template to serve as a reference.

Step 2: Utilize the pen tool to draw a line, where the white line functions as a contrasting element between light and dark areas.

Step 3: Employ the pathfinder tool to divide the two lines created in the previous step.

Step 4: Proceed to fill in the colors, capturing the varying tones within the pear.

Step 5: Introduce the stalk at the pear's end to finalize the chiaroscuro effect.

Step 6: Utilize the knife tool to cut the pear, and then fill in different colors for the distinct sections.

Step 7: Draw the pulp of the pear, paying attention to its texture and form.

Step 8: Enhance the realism by incorporating seeds between the pulps, adding finer details to your illustration.

Final outcome of the Exercise

Figure 5: Final Outcome of Chiaroscuro Pear Exercise

Week 4 || 19.9.2023

In the fourth week of the course, we continued our exploration of Chiaroscuro through various exercises. A notable assignment involved tracing the silhouette of a man, incorporating advanced techniques such as clipping masks and blending modes to refine and enhance our artistic representations.

To further refine our skills, we were the provided with this image to carry on the practice sessions.

Figure 6: Image provided in class 

In the exercise, an example was provided to aid in comprehending the required tasks. This example served as a visual guide, demonstrating the expected outcome and illustrating the techniques to be applied during the exercise.

Figure 7: Reference image

Figure 8: Tracing the shape of the man and the shadow on Adobe Illustrator

Figure 9: Chiaroscuro man exercise without texture 

Figure 10: Chiaroscuro man exercise with texture