Design Principles [TASK 2: VISUAL ANALYSIS]

Task 2: Visual Analysis

27/02/2024 - 05/03/2024 (week 4 - week 5)

Rafa Maritza Hertrian [0364958] 

Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media/ Taylor's University 

Design Principles GCD60804

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INSTRUCTIONS

Figure 1.1: MIB GCD 60804 / DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Instructions: 

• Recap Task 2 brief
• Write a 300- to 350-word visual analysis of the selected design
• (refer to Visual Analysis lecture notes and guide).
• Include reference links where applicable.

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WEEKLY SUMMARY

Week 4

In week 4, I started to look at project 2. In this project, we have to dig deeper into the design principles of the artwork that we have chosen. To have a detailed observation of the illustration, I annotated the artwork following the observation, analysis, and interpretation guide the lecturers gave. 

Week 5

After being satisfied with the visual analysis, I analyzed the key points of the artwork's design principles and elements and put it all down into one essay. 

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PRACTICAL

The Plastic Ocean

Figure 1.2 Plastic Ocean by Bonnie Monteleone (2017)

Bonnie Monteleone 

2017

Digital, Mix media

Size (N/A)
https://water.uci.edu/plastic-ocean-art-exhibit/

Annotation of The Artwork

Figure 1.3 Annotation of Visual Analysis

Visual Analysis of "The Plastic Ocean" by Bonnie Monteleone

Bonnie Monteleone's "The Plastic Ocean" is an emotive portrayal of the worldwide problem of plastic contamination in our oceans. It is clear from a perceptive visual assessment that Monteleone carefully chooses which design elements and principles to use to effectively communicate her message.

The audience is drawn in right away by the dominant blue color scheme, which is enhanced with warmer tones suggestive of yellow and green. The chosen color represents the pollution that affects the ocean's purity along with reflecting the ocean's natural colors. The vivid garbage floating atop the deep blue sea acts as an establishing reminder of the harm that human consumption does to marine ecosystems.

The systematic use of forms, especially triangles, by Monteleone refers discreetly to well-known pieces of art like Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave off Kanagawa". The relationship between messages gives the artwork depth and emphasizes how timeless the environmental issue it portrays is.

Space is employed well, emphasizing the inequalities brought about by human activity with the large expanse of empty blue sky contrasted with the crowded water below. The issue of environmental degradation and the pressing necessity for action are highlighted by this spatial contrast.

The artwork's visual impact is further enhanced by the use of texture and line work. There is a sense of movement and liveliness brought about by the fine details of the waves, which are produced by curving lines and white points. The waste's coarse texture, on the other hand, draws attention to its unusual presence in the aquatic environment.

Monteleone directs the viewer's attention to the focal point, which is the pile of trash in the composition's center, by using Gestalt theory. Viewers are forced to face the unpleasant truth of plastic pollution and its effects by this deliberate design.

To sum up, "The Plastic Ocean" is a critique of the environmental catastrophe that our world is currently experiencing. Utilizing a thorough evaluation of color, shape, space, texture, and design principles, Monteleone skillfully conveys the pressing need to take immediate action to eliminate plastic waste in our oceans. Artworks such as this, by their capacity to raise consciousness and motivate action, are vital in molding public opinion and cultivating environmental responsibility for posterity.

Word count: 331

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FEEDBACK

Week 4

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Week 5

When I showed my work to Mr. Charles, he said so far my work looks complete. But he still asked me whether I thought the visual analysis was complete enough. It makes me think that I should go through my analysis again to make sure I have other things to add. 

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REFLECTION

Experience 

I find this task very intriguing because I get to apply the knowledge I have learned of Design principles by doing a visual analysis of another artist's artwork. I am surprised to find more and more information as I observe the art piece.

Observation 

I realized from observing the illustration, that the artist plays with the visual hierarchy to convey the message of the illustration. It gives direction to which details that is important for the audience to absorb. 

Findings

Since it enables contrasting parts to harmonize and generate deeper levels of meaning, juxtaposition is a powerful tool for creating visually compelling artwork that adds richness and mystery to the composition as a whole.