Introduction to graphic design
Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets. To say it’s important would be an understatement.
Don’t just consume. Learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages, emotions and ideas. Beyond this, learn about the movements and styles which have shaped the field of Graphic Design over the years, and how to find your place there.
Choose a start date
- Course Code: VZ378
- Dates: 30/05/24 - 04/07/24
- Time: 18:00 - 21:00
- Taught: Thu, Evening
- Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Pam Williams
Course Code: VZ378
Choose a start date
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual (thinking) skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped the evolution of this subject area.
What will we cover?
• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.
• How to create designs which communicate specific information.
• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.
• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.
• The key movements and styles within the subject area.
Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, and pattern, to communicate basic information.
• Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.
• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for beginners.
English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need 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?
- Presentations
- Demonstrations
- Practical work
- Individual and group tutoring
- Group discussion
Additional/extension activities 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.
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 City Lit 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?
At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.
To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and 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. 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 you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.
For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.
Pam Williams is a designer and an educator with a wealth of industry experience. Working with leading architects, including Foster and Partners to create exhibition and signage design. Whilst at The Museum of London she produced graphic illustrations for inhouse Archaeology publications. She is responsible for the visual identity and promotional material for Peckham based Ganapati Restaurant. Pam has been lead as well as contributed to teaching Visual Communications at the University of the Arts on the Foundation course and for Central Saint Martin Summer School Programme. She is a graduate of Central Saint Martins and The Royal College of Art.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
