More Photoshop Magic.

Learning how to make obscene backgrounds for images.

Converting images into GIF files for your Commodore64 viewing pleasure.

Jumping on the b&w subject w/boldly coloured accessory bandwagon.

Pure C.R.A.P.

Today, kids, we will be examining the C.R.A.P method of design (being, contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity).

Juha M. Kinnunen

http://juhamkinnunen.com/photography/pofo/JPEG/turku.jpg

This photo consists of the four elements of CRAP because of the contrast between the dark street lamps and the bright orange walls. The windows and cobblestone repeat themselves across the picture, which makes your eyes follow the picture to the end of the alley (which also serves as an element of alignment). Proximity is exemplified by the row houses one side of the photograph, while being contrasted by the street lights on the opposite side of the houses.

Chris Hall

http://www.crownandanchortattoo.com/chrisart.html

This piece embodies the four CRAP principals, firstly because of the striking contrast between the soft pinks and greens and the dark browns and gold. The piece has a whimsical feel that is repeated throughout, mainly due to the pink ribbon wrapped around the locket. This creates a sense of alignment. Our eye follows the ribbon, and in turn, we experience the whole picture piece by piece. Given the subject matter is a lock and key, this picture exemplifies proximity since the two elements are together as they logically should be.

Bob Tyrrell

http://bobtyrrell.com/galleries/index.php?album=Fine_Art

This painting exhibits the CRAP method of design. For starters, there is a strong contrast in the faces of the subjects, namely Frankenstien. The dramatic contrast adds to the gloomy feel of the piece. The lightning serves the purpose of both repetition and alignment, simultaneously created a sense of unity within the piece and drawing the eye along the piece. The subjects of the piece of clustered together towards the centre, making them the focus of the piece. They are somewhat segregated from the lightning which acts as more of a guide for where the eye should look.

Shepard Fairey

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a9/Barack_Obama_Hope_poster.svg/180px-Barack_Obama_Hope_poster.svg.png

This picture is a prime example of a piece that employs all facets of the CRAP method of design. The colours create an extremely strong contrast that almost leaps off the page. The red, white and blue is repeated to create a strong sense of patriotism, with the cartoony line-work creating a sense of flow and alignment in the picture. Finally, proximity is very evident, as a strong distinction between text space and portrait space has been made at the bottom of the picture where “HOPE” is.

And thus concludes my lesson on CRAP, kids. Next week join me when I don't have the black plague and will hopefully have more insightful, riveting blog posts.

-Sinead

Las Vegas Postcard

Behold my Photoshop magic!

Week 1

Before the Digital Media lecture, I felt the term was very daunting. I immediately jumped to images of very complex equipment that I would have no hope of using. I also felt that it was going to be a very rigid subject that was strictly technological. However, after the lecture, I became increasingly excited and optimistic for the course. For starters, my preconceived notion of it being a solely technical course vanished after Laurie Petrou asserted the class of her love of art and disdain for math (we share some common ground). Upon learning about the artistic elements of the course, I was excited to learn that I can use a myriad of mediums in the course that may be a little more primitive than Photoshop (i.e. collage, paint, charcoal, etc). It made me feel that even if I struggle a little with the extremely technical aspects of the course, I can still succeed and contribute in a meaningful way, creatively.

I think this course is imperative to take as a first year course because it introduces an RTA student to technology they will be using in a relaxed, intimate manner. I have a feeling students will be able to feel more comfortable very quickly in the lab environment, which may help us acclimate to professional settings (such as internships). I know for myself that if I learn skills in an area I’m not too familiar with, it will build my confidence not only for this course, but for my others, in turn helping me pursue more challenges in my four years at Ryerson.

Finally, I feel Marshall McLuhan was correct in his theory that “the medium is the message.” This concept heavily comes into play in today’s society with the advent of social networking websites. As it has been stated by Laurie Petrou and by others in my classes, we as a society don’t seem to care what messages we’re being fed by Facebook, Twitter, etc. We just want them and we want them instantly. Although maybe as a society we should be listening about social injustices in the third world…well…Kanye West just apologized via Twitter and at the moment, that seems much more important. Yes, McLuhan was right.