Design Principles - Task 2: Visual Analysis & Ideation
Khan Saif / 0367438
Design Principles / Bachelor's Design in Creative Media / Taylor's
Task 2: Visual Analysis & Ideation
Tables of Content:
1. Lecture
2. Instruction
3. Task 2: Visual Analysis & Ideation
4. Feedback/Reflection
LECTURES:
A visual explanation of visual structures that becomes a critical part of visual literacy. a skill that helps people read and critically interpret images. Practising visual analysis sharpens citical judgment skills and helps people seek out answers.
Phase 1: Observation
Closely look at and identify visual elements of a design.
Phase 2: Analysis
After that, make statements about the work based on the evidence of the observations. It requires critical thinking with each visual elements and principles complete that work of art/design.
Phase 3: Interpretation
Analyze the work with facts about the design work and historical context.
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Recap Task 2 Brief.
2. Write a 300-350 words of visual analysis based on the artwork we've selected for Task 1.
3. Sketch 3 ideas on how the selected design can be improved, while support it with rationale in 30-50 words.
TASK 2: VISUAL ANALYSIS & IDEATION
Takiyasha the Witch and the Skeleton Spectre, By Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1844)
Visual Analysis:
Phase 1: Observation (101 words)
The artwork displays a dark and a dramatic scene with a sorceress named Takiyasha summoning the giant skeleton using a seemingly traditional scroll in a calm yet commanding manner on the left, with a group of samurai warriors on the center hiding behind the bush, seemingly to be startled by Takiyasha's supernatural summon. To the right, it's the giant skeleton that Takiyasha has summoned. Its hollow yet lifelike presence, alongside with its curved spine and limbs creates a very dynamic composition that it drastically create the emphasis of its nightmarish intensity, it's almost like the image is moving on its own.
Phase 2: Analysis (100 words)
The artwork is asymmetrical balanced. The artwork was divided into three panels and it maintains a balance with the large focal point of a giant skeleton figure on and detailed human figures and objects on the other side. The artwork portrays a lot of contrast, most notably the use of skeleton's ginormous portrait and its looming, shadowy background creates a cohesive aesthetic, further complimenting the unity of composition and its emphasis of fear and urgency. The skeleton's curved spine and the bush that gradually lead the eye towards upward left position of the artwork creates a movement for this artwork.
Phase 3: Interpretation (157 words)
This striking artwork illustrates the tale takes place all the way back in Heian Period (794-1185). Takiyasha was a daughter of a warlord Taira Masakado, who started the rebellion against the court of Heian (Kyoto), but failed with most soldiers and himself get killed and sent to the palace in the process. Following that, Takiyasha gathered the ghosts of the soldiers during the rebellion and eventually summons a giant skeleton, testing the authority of the samurais. I was fascinated by this artwork right after the analysis because I realized the focus represents a lot of themes in the artwork. For example, the skeleton represents Takiyasha's unseen yet lingering force of vengeance, along with her oppression towards the authority and her past.
Ultimately, I think what Kuniyoshi did is a masterful fusion of history, folklore, and artistry. It is a beautiful blend of history and fantasy and achieved the Edo period's fascination towards ghost stories and supernatural powers.
Reference: Salman. (2024, August 9). Kuniyoshi’s takiyasha the witch and the skeleton spectre. The Art of Zen. https://theartofzen.org/kuniyoshis-takiyasha-the-witch-and-the-skeleton-spectre/#:~:text=The%20Story%20Behind%20the%20Art&text=Takiyasha%20Hime%20was%20the%20daughter,Gashadokruro)%20to%20aid%20her%20cause.
Ideation:
Sketch 1:
Full Artwork of Sketch #1
Sketch #1 with Panels
Sketch 1 Rationale:
This sketch is identical to the actual artwork, using panels to demonstrate the asymmetrical balance of the artwork. However, the notable difference is that Takiyasha the witch hid in the 3rd panel without looking at the skeleton or the samurai, further demonstrates her hatred and disgust towards the authority. The skeleton's angle also slighty altered. This is to improve the proximity between the samurais and the ginormous portrait of the skeleton's hand, further displaying fear and anxiety.
Sketch 2:
Full Artwork of Sketch #2
Sketch #2 with Rule of Thirds guide
Sketch 2 Rationale:
This sketch uses Rule of Thirds as composition as an attempt to create the artwork in a different and dynamic angle. The use of destroyed woods between Takiyasha and the skeleton in the artwork was used to align the rule of thirds. Takiyasha once again was in front of the skeleton and the samurai, once again display her hatred and disgust.
Sketch 3:
Full Artwork of Sketch #3
Sketch #3 with Golden Ratio guide
This sketch uses Golden Ratio as composition as an attempt to create the artwork in a different and dynamic angle. The use of destroyed woods, the portrait of the skeleton, and the samurais was used to align the golden ratio, aligning the unity of the composition. Takiyasha this time around ride on top of the skeleton.
FEEDBACK / REFLECTION:
Feedback:
WEEK 4:
1. Keep the observations plain and simple, and don't display what material used for the specific artwork.
2. Avoid using long sentence.
WEEK 5: ABSENT
Reflection:
By studying the work of others, I have developed a keen eye for identifying and articulating key design principles. Through colours, shapes, and composition, I have come to see design as more than just aesthetics—it is a powerful tool for conveying ideas and emotions. I now appreciate how thoughtful design choices can engage an audience, guide their perception, and create meaningful connections. As I continue to explore different artistic styles and approaches, I gain a deeper understanding of how visual elements work together to form cohesive and impactful messages. These experiences have not only refined my ability to analyze design but have also reinforced my appreciation for its role in shaping our interactions with the world.
Comments
Post a Comment