Common Course Outline
ARTD 233
Computer Illustration II
3 Semester Hours
The Community College of Baltimore County
Description
ARTD 233 – 3 Credits – Computer Illustration II
builds upon the skills learned in ARTD 142 and introduces advanced vector drawing
techniques; explores concepts involved in producing successful complex vector
illustrations; challenges students to produce strong and creative solutions for a variety of
design problems; encourages students to explore and develop a personal style of
illustration.
3 credits; 2 lecture hours per week; 3 laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite: ARTD 140 or consent of the program coordinator
Overall Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course the student will be able to:
1. Describe the advantages of vector structures and their difference from raster effects
and utilize best practices of the program including coordination of the layers,
appearance and styles palettes.
2. Design specimen type sheets using expert type tools and Open Type fonts; including
using typography to direct eye movement through the page; controlling type as a
design element, and adjusting spacing and alignment to contribute to the unity of the
design.
3. Make representational renderings of photographs into vector objects using tracing
tools, blends, transparency masks, gradient meshes and other advanced illustrator
tools.
4. Design and utilize symbol sets for the execution of efficient, integrated compositions
concentrating on the principles of repetition and variation for a specific purpose.
5. Use precision tools to construct consistent three-dimensional spaces and populate the
spaces with objects made with extruding, rotating and revolving tools. Apply
consistent lighting and surface effects to complete the composition.
6. Research, analyze, and describe, using correct design terminology, the work of
established artists who use vector drawing styles.
7. Identify, describe, and construct sets of small illustrations, icons or spots that utilize a
consistent and identifiable style.
8. Build and save libraries of custom brushes, styles, patterns and symbols.
9. Transport vector graphic elements to and from applications for various purposes
including screen and print use.
10. Execute and present finished pieces that are portfolio quality.
11. Explain and defend design concepts related to the assigned project.
Revised 11/01/04
Major Topics
I. Logic of vector drawing methods
a. History of vector art
1. Primary uses
2. Evolution of vector tools
b. Techniques and methods in contemporary vector illustration applications
c. Primary (vector structure) and secondary (raster effects) techniques
d. Career paths in computer illustration
e. Discovering a personal workflow and technique
f. The design process and proper work flow procedures
1. Thumbnails
2. Roughs
3. Printing
4. Mounting, matting, and protection
II. Using the layers, appearance, and styles palettes
a. Logically ordering the procedure
b. Making sure the illustration prints
III. Expert use of type formatting
a. Designing a specimen sheet
b. Special characters
c. Effective use of white space
d. Size and placement for emphasis
e. Type as a design element
1. Form and counter form
2. Type as color
3. Type as texture
4. Type as space
f. Typographic contrast
1. Display type
2. Text type
g. Type adjustment
1. Spacing, including kerning and tracking
2. Leading
3. Alignment
IV. Construction of three dimensional space
a. Spatial devices to construct consistent 3D space
b. Using precision measurement tools such as guides and grids
c. Using blends to construct parts
d. Using the 3D tools to extrude, revolve, and rotate shapes
e. Applying lighting and surface appearances to 3D shapes
f. Designing a complete 3D space illustration
V. Rendering objects from outside source materials
a. Comparison of tracing methods
b. Color sampling
Revised 11/01/04
c. Gradients and meshes
d. Blends for modeling
e. Clipping masks and opacity masks
f. Building form with transparency
VI. Designing and using symbols
a. Analyzing a situation that lends itself to rendering with the principles of
repetition and variation
b. Planning, designing, and constructing symbols
c. Symbol libraries
d. Utilizing symbols in finished compositions and animations
VII. Development of an identifiable style
a. Research and analysis of styles of contemporary vector illustrators
b. Choosing and refining elements for a personal style
c. Writing artists statements based on a personal style
a. Presenting a vector-based portfolio
Course Requirements
Grading/Exams: Grading procedures will be determined by the individual faculty
member but will include the following:
A mid-term and final written exam.
A portfolio of 8-10 images based on course lectures and assignments.
Other Course Information
This course is taught in a computerized environment.
Individual faculty members may include additional course objectives, major topics, and
other course requirements to the minimum expectations stated in the Common Course
Outline.
Revised 11/01/04