Introduction to graphic design and illustration

What is the course about?

The course is an introduction to graphic design and illustration, with strong emphasis on developing creative thinking skills and learning how to generate ideas and outcomes in response to project work that is set on the programme.

You will be introduced you to a wide range of contemporary practitioners who within the fields of graphic design and illustration, examining the cross-over links between these areas. Through a wide range of creative projects, you will build confidence and knowledge within the area you wish to develop and will gain an initial skills set across both areas.

Projects may include typography, logo design, drawing and editorial illustration, postcard/flyer design, packaging design and design for advertising. Within the final stages of the course, projects and briefs will directed towards your personal pathway.

What will we cover?

• Observational drawing and illustration techniques
• Layout design for both graphic design and illustration
• Typography and experiments with lettering
• Combining text and image
• Basic digital image manipulation techniques
• Collage and mixed media.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Define and analyse a design problem
• Generate and develop ideas in response to a set brief
• Develop strategies in research
• Use a range of art materials and processes with confidence
• Identify the different areas of graphic design and illustration to inform progression.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is ideal for beginners and those who are looking to explore both pathways in order to inform progression. This course is also suitable for those wishing to study for personal development or to refresh skills.

You should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You will be encouraged to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be taught via practical demonstrations, workshop tasks, group discussion and critique, and individual tuition. You will be encouraged to contribute ideas and present your work.

Additional / extension tasks may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you during each session.

This course is supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the Citylit website.

Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

All basic materials are provided. If you have particular imagery you wish to use as part of the course, please bring this with you. We advise you bring an A5, A4 sketchbook to record your ideas and development.

Other materials and equipment required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor during the first session.

Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencil to printing services, at 15% off.

To get 15% LGC discount, students will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment of them being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. The student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

We offer a range of courses in graphic design and illustration including our City Lit projects courses. For more information about courses on offer, please visit our website.