Course content

In this course, you will have the possibility to develop and create a booklet or other type of visual information or aesthetic communication. The production theme is self-determined but is mostly divided into three types. The first is about making a portfolio or similar communication as proof of skills, type; project portfolio. The second is a more open documentary exploration of space, place and atmosphere based on travel or a site exploration, type; travelogue, guide book, field notes, visual and textual poetics. The third is conceptualization of the project itself that challenges, expands and experiments with the boundaries as a book, information form or object, type artists book, expanded conceptual project, object.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE: Understanding of the application of gestalt principles of 2D visual organisation, principles of graphic layout, understanding of basic good typography and text setting rules. Basic semiotics of visual communication and composition. Strategy for developing and understanding user orientated communication design. Methods of visual rhetoric, communication media, format choices and production. SKILLS: The ability to organise, edit and contextualise visual and written material into a hierarchically consistent and meaningfull communication that serves the needs of information delivery for both user and producer. The effective and legible transmission of meaning in range of rhetorical positions from the aesthetic to the technical. GENERAL COMPETENCE: The ability to develop a coherent visual information strategy from conception to production in a wide range of media and formats as generally applicable to future professional and personal information communication tasks

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and tutorials. Content; Gestalt theory of 2D design, Principles of visual organisation in composition, Visual rhetoric, basic visual communication theory and visual semantics, principles of user orientated information design. Introduction to typography and typesetting. Discussion of image communication and aesthetics. Introduction to formats and forms of publications. Advice in editing material and aesthetic organization. Advice in practicalities of production.

Further on evaluation

Exam; Design project in pdf format prefaced by a statement of intent.

The final evaluation is based on delivery of a self-defined visual communication design project prefaced by a statement of intent that outlines the communication intentions and design values of the work submitted.

Material for delivery

final design project in pdf format (print ready). Combined with a statement of intent and reflection as specified in the course description. The statement to be the opening page/s of the final project.

Upload only 1 pdf file to Inspera within the specified date

Statement of intent

Written statement on the intentions behind the work presented and at what audience/s it is aimed, it should cover the following themes and may include illustrations and diagrams of grid, layout development and other relevant material. At least one side and not more than four sides.

Definition of typology with explanation and reasoning of intent (for example, but not limited to)

• Portfolio to communicate to possible employer
• Architectural subject/thematic study
• Personal reflection/artefact
• Artistic/creative expression
• Travelogue
• Other typology (self-defined)

Reasoning for

• Format/size
• Choice of typography
• Layout form
• Content decisions
• Visual rhetoric qualities (the visual tone of voice)

This statement can be in Norwegian or English.

Hand Crafted Projects (if relevant)

If you have worked on a handcrafted project, you will need to photograph or scan each spread and then import to InDesign to make a pdf. Hand in crafted/printed projects as soon as possible but not later than 7 days after the compulsory digital delivery.

Digital projects (if relevant)

For Websites or other externally accessed design material make clear the link to external material in the statement and include an overview of the menu system and page flow with screen shots, this should be substantial enough to represent the work.

Postponed examinations are usually scheduled for the next regular exam period.

Recommended previous knowledge

Some experience with desktop publishing software and digital image manipulation

Required previous knowledge

Completed three years basic courses in architecture, bachelor in architecture or equivalent in design and fine art.

Course materials

Extensive materials available on the course blackboard site

Credit reductions