Visual Communication DepartmentAdministrative Office: Room 1220, 12th floor, Sharp BuildingFaculty Office: Room 1114, 11th floor312.899.5190

Hi everyone!The following is an overview of the undergraduate offerings in Visual Communication. Feel free to hand this out to any and all interested students.

Best,

Stephen FarrellChair, Visual Communication

Current curriculum and policies

On the following pages are the most current curriculum grid for Viscom and a grid of the new First Year Program (FYP) as of FA06.

The Visual Communication curriculum is arranged into a track of core design classes and a stock of design seminar and studio electives. We strongly encourage students who wish to specialize in Viscom to complete all of our core courses and follow the proscribed, cumulative sequence as closely as possible. As you progress through the sequence, the number of core courses diminishes, offering you an increasing amount of time to explore other courses both inside and outside the Viscom department. As a whole package, our curriculum encourages you to explore and to specialize while building core formal, technical and conceptual skills. We believe this to be an ideal formula for marketable, upwardly-mobile, and flexible entry-level designers.

The Viscom core is subdivided into a general sequence (including a typography sequence) and an additional core media track for students interested in pursuing digital interaction and interface design. All other courses offered by our department are arranged in a section of electives roughly divided into design studio electives and design seminar electives.

yr 1 ___

yr 2 ___

yr 3 ___

yr 4 ___

fa ll

spring

fa ll

spring

PORTFOLIO REVIEW

BFA SHOW

core design history core viscom sequencecore media sequence

viscom media sequence

4001

VISCOM 3002(3) viscomstudio electives &instructor sig.

6 cr

ADVANCED STUDIO

4011

VISCOM 3011

3 cr

ADVANCEDTYPOGRAPHY

3011

VISCOM 2001VISCOM 2011portfolio review

3 cr

INTERMEDIATETYPOGRAPHY

2011

VISCOM 1001 (1101)

VISCOM 1002co-req 2012

3 cr

BEGINNINGTYPOGRAPHY

3002

VISCOM 3001VISCOM 3011portfolio review

3 cr

ENVISIONINGINFORMATION:ANALYSIS ANDDISPLAY

4041

VISCOM 3002

3 cr

INTERFACE/INTERACTION:DESIGNINGEXPERIENCES

3042

VISCOM 2041portfolio review

3 cr

DIGITALINTERACTIONDESIGN

2041

VISCOM 1002or 2941

3 cr

COMPUTER AS AMOTION GRAPHICTOOL

3045

VISCOM 3001portfolio review

3 cr

INTERFACE ANDSTRUCTURE: WEBDESIGN

2042

VISCOM 2041

3 cr

ADVANCED MOTIONGRAPHICS

3 cr

INTERMEDIATEGRAPHIC DESIGN

2001

VISCOM 1001 (1101)

VISCOM 1002

3 cr

BEGINNINGGRAPHIC DESIGN

1001 / 1101

co-req 10022014

3 cr

INTRODUCTION TOVISUALCOMMUNICATION

3091 3 cr

ENCOUNTERINGINFORMATION:NAVIGATION ANDINTERPRETATION

2002

VISCOM 1001 (1101)

VISCOM 1002

3 cr

IMAGE STUDIO

1002

co-req 1001 (1101)

1.5 cr

ILLUSTRATIONTECHNOLOGIES LAB

3001

VISCOM 2001VISCOM 2011portfolio review

VISUAL COMMUNICATION CURRICULUM

viscom studio electives (pre-reqs) 3 cr

3111 LETTERPRESS BOOKWORKS (2001, 2011, or sig.)

3122 DIGITAL IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES LAB (2002)

3126 GRAPHIC BOOK: NARRATIVE STRATEGIES (2001)

3131 PACKAGE DESIGN (2001, 2011)

3191 TRUTH / PERCEPTION / STORYTELLING

3192 COLOR CODES: TEXT / IMAGE / FORM (2001)

3921 SCIENTIFIC ILLUSTRATION

3922 NATURAL HISTORY ILLUSTRATION

4121 BRAND IDENTITY (3002)

4122 ADV DIGITAL PRE-PRESS PRODUCTION (1002, 2001)

4131 PACKAGING: STIMULUS AND RESPONSE (3131, 3011)

4135 COMMUNICATION ENVIRONMENT (2001)

viscom seminar electives (pre-reqs) 3 cr

3291 DESIGN ISSUES

3293 WOMEN AND DESIGN

3295 BUSINESS PRACTICES FOR DESIGN (prtfo rev.)

3981 MONEY & PURPOSE OF PURCHASING

3982 MARKETING OF THE NEW AGE

4221 DESIGN DIRECTIVE SEMINAR (3002)

4981 IMAGING NATIONS

5330 DESIGN AND WRITING (signature)

s a i c I S S U E D 1 1 . 2 8 . 0 5

PORTFOLIO REVIEW

3009

VISCOM 3001VISCOM 3011

can be repeated

1.5 cr

PROFESSIONALPRACTICE

2081

?

1.5 cr?

VISCOM RESEARCHSTUDIO

3009

VISCOM 3001VISCOM 3011

can be repeated

1.5 cr

PROFESSIONALPRACTICE

2012

VISCOM 1001 (1101)

VISCOM 1002co-req 2011

1.5 cr

TYPETECHNOLOGIES LAB

132 cr .. BFA in VISCOM

72 cr .. Studio18 cr .. Art History30 cr .. Liberal Arts

English 6Natural Science 6Social Science 6Humanities 6Liberal Arts Electives 6

12 cr .. General Electives (Viscom or non-viscom studioelective, Art History or Liberal Arts course)

+

Visual Communication curriculum

Freshman yearThe new FA06 First Year Program structure allows students to begin the Visual Communication sequence in their very first semester here. We now strongly encourage students to take Intro to Visual Communication/Illustration Tech in fall and Beginning Typography/Type Technologies Lab in spring of their freshman year. Beginning Graphic Design and Image Studio should follow Beginning Type.

Co-requisite Technologies Lab competency testsBoth Intro to Visual Communication and Beginning Typography have required co-requisite technologies labs (see the curriculum grid). A thorough and intimate knowledge of the technologies covered in both of these labs is absolutely essential for any practicing designer, and we rarely grant waivers for these co-requisite requirements. Also, please note that the freshman SAIC Wired class does not take the place of Illustration Technologies Lab—you must receive credit (either by passing the class or being granted a waiver) for Viscom’s Illustration Technologies Lab before your portfolio review.

Transfer students who have had these technologies taught elsewhere may opt to take a competency test for either Adobe Illustrator or InDesign/QuarkXPress. Each test is three hours long and comprehensive in its scope. These tests will be administered and assessed by Kimberly Viviano, our Technology Lab Coordinator. Please email her (kvivia@artic.edu) if you think you may qualify for a waiver.

FYP 1011

co-req FYP 1022

3 cr

core studio practice ii

arthi 1002

ARTHI 1001

3 cr

survey of modern to contemporary art & archit

fa ll18 cr

spring16.5 cr

fyp

core studio research studio

fyp

contemporary practice courses (viscom) art history

FYP 1022

co-req FYP 1011

3 cr

research studio ii

FYP 1020

co-req FYP 1010

3 cr

research studio i

FYP 1010

co-req FYP 1020

3 cr

core studio practice i

arthi 1001 3 cr

survey of ancient to modern art & archit

lib 1003 / 05 3 cr

writing workshop or fys elective

liberal arts electives

lib 1001 3 cr

essay writing

1001

co-req 10022014

3 cr

contmp practice: introduction to visual communication

1002

co-req 1001

1.5 cr

illustration technologies lab

2011

co-req 2012pre-req 10012014

3 cr

contmp practice: beginning typography

2012

co-req 2011pre-req 1002

1.5 cr

type technologies lab

FYP 1.5 cr

saic wired

New portfolio review policiesThere are three changes to Viscom’s portfolio review, effective this semester:

1. The following courses will be required for portfolio review:Introduction to Visual CommunicationIllustration Technologies LabBeginning TypographyType Technologies LabBeginning Graphic DesignImage Studio

2. The portfolio committee will review the performance evaluations (both midtern and final) from all foundation courses above, and these will be considered alongside your portfolio.

3. Effective this semester, the portfolio committee will either pass or not pass each portfolio. The committee will no longer allow students to resubmit within the same semester or submit after the review date. If a student does not pass the portfolio review, they must wait until the following semester to resubmit—no exceptions.

New thesis and professional development coursesWe have added a Professional Practice class (VISCOM 3009) which will help you prepare your portfolio and resumé package, sharpen your interviewing skills, strategically survey the job market or target clients, and prepare for the business side of design practice. Please note that this is a 1.5 credit course which you can take multiple times. We are encouraging students to take this first when they are preparing for an internship, and again before graduation.

Also, the Viscom core now culminates in a senior thesis class, Advanced Studio (VISCOM 4001), a team-taught critique seminar. To be admitted to this class, you must be a senior, fulfill the necessary pre-requisites (or equivalent coursework), and submit a proposal outlining your intentions for your thesis coursework.

Visual Communication undergraduate course descriptions

VISCOM 1001 Introduction to Visual CommunicationThis research, discussion, and critique course develops a visual and verbal vocabulary by examining relationships between form and content, word and image. Study includes symbolic association and the problem of effective communication in a highly complex culture.Co-requisite: VISCOM 1002.

VISCOM 1002 Illustration Technologies LabThis class familiarizes students with the syntax, tools and methods of vector-based drawing and reinforces analogies to traditional (and non-traditional) methods of image-making covered in the First Year Program. Students begin with an introduction to the computer as a graphic design tool: the relationship of different design software packages to one another, the relationship of vector to raster graphics, resolution types and an overview of the peripherals (scanners, printers, burners) available in the labs. The rest of the course focuses on building proficiency with illustration software (mainly Adobe Illustrator and a little Adobe Photoshop) in a design context. Information is reinforced via tutorials and short design exercises which target specific topics and techniques covered during lectures. Students begin to apply this technical skillset to formal design problems in the following semester’s Beginning Graphic Design and Beginning Typography classes. Co-requisite: VISCOM 1001.

VISCOM 2001 Beginning Graphic DesignThe principles of visual communication are explored in the studio by making designed objects as two-dimensional printed comprehensives and as three dimensional, functioning mock-ups. Stress is placed on process and development; idea generation and targeted form exploration; image and text research and development; compositional structure and hierarchy; verbal, technical and hand skills. Students develop their projects hand-sketching ideas, concepts and layouts, then progress through a series of more refined prototypes or comprehensives. Final iterations are realized using appropriate computer software for digital output. The course also covers the technical aspects of graphic design, such as printing methods, papers, binding and color models used by commercial printers. Coursework shall be included in VisCom’s obligatory portfolio review for advancement into the intermediate VisCom courses.Pre-requisite: VISCOM 1001.

VISCOM 2002 Image Studio (3 cr)This course explores the varied techniques and processes available to create images and compose them in order to communicate an idea/message. We will begin by exploring a diverse range of reproduction techniques and technologies, moving on to photography using analog and digital technology for image creation and manipulation. Image Studio challenges the student’s ability to self-generate inventive images and visual language. Form studies examine organic and constructed elements along with design aspects such as perspective, juxtaposition, progression and interpretation. Assignments will include images created in the design studio, image layout for publication, team projects exploring the idea of narrative imagery and an individual final project. Studio time will include readings and relevant excursions.Pre-requisite: VISCOM 1001.

VISCOM 2011 Beginning TypographyThis course involves the use of typography to create meaning. Students experiment in typographic composition, contrast, hierarchy, and value in combination with language. Students learn the technical aspects of typography (specification and copyfitting) and are exposed to historical developments in typography.Co-requisite: VISCOM 2012.Prerequisite: VISCOM 1001 and VISCOM 1002.

VISCOM 2012 Type Technologies LabThis class is a co-requisite with Beginning Typography and closely couples with the activities of this particular studio course. The lab components introduce students to page layout software (namely InDesign), its terminology and its specific functions, its relationship to other software packages, techniques for composing and outputting digitally, and the technical aspects of digital typography. This information is reinforced via tutorials and short design exercises which target specific topics and techniques covered during lectures. As the semester progresses, this class also functions as a working lab for the Beginning Typography studio class, allowing students to work on the same project across both classes and receive technology assistance from the instructor. This crossover reinforces the links between digital and non-digital composing and terminologies.Co-requisite: VISCOM 2011.Prerequisite: VISCOM 1001 and VISCOM 1002.

VISCOM 2041 The Computer as a Motion Graphics ToolThis course examines the relationship between graphic design and time-based mediums such as film, video, television, and the internet. Students choose from film, video, performance, or text sources to create time-based sequences which activate text and imagery. The process begins by developing 2D storyboards, which are translated into motion graphics concepts and formats. Students are introduced to motion-based computer graphics sequences, extending their capabilities as graphic designers into the realm of 4D. Prerequisite: VISCOM 1002.

VISCOM 2042 Advanced Motion GraphicsUsing a variety of media, this course builds on the animation skills learned in Computer as a Motion Graphics Tool. Combining text, graphics, photographs, video and sound, the class will explore traditional and alternative narratives, collage techniques, time manipulation, and film, television as well as web-influenced rhythms and compositions. While refining surface and experimenting with structure, the class will create expressive, political and communicative time-based sequences. Prerequisite: VISCOM 2041.

VISCOM 3001 Intermediate Graphic DesignExperiments in visual communication challenge the student to further refine visual thinking and integrate basic studies through applied problems. The importance of flexibility of approach is stressed at this level. Through experimentation, the problem is defined and organized; imagery and message are manipulated; awareness of potential solutions is increased. A student’s portfolio must be pre-approved by the Visual Communication department prior to enrollment in this course.Prerequisite: VISCOM 2001 and VISCOM 2011.

VISCOM 3002 Envisioning Information: Analysis and DisplayHow does graphic design facilitate the ways we gather, give and receive information? How might we use typography and pictures, diagrams and symbols, sequence and spatial configuration to untangle a raw mass of data, guide a complex procedure, open (or suppress) correlations or satisfy multiple users’ needs? This course explores principles and concepts of information design and visual display. Emphasis is placed on analysis and mapping of raw data, structuring hierarchical and parallel pieces of information, enforcing statistical honest, picturing nouns (maps, timetables...) and picturing verbs (representation of mechanisms and motion, narrative...). Prerequisites: VISCOM 3001 and VISCOM 3011.

VISCOM 3009 Professional Practice (1.5 cr)Formal portfolios are evaluated and assembled to represent the student’s individual design skills, abilities, and interests. This course includes resume writing, interview techniques, general business practices, and strategies for locating and contacting various types of design employers locally to internationally. This course is ideal for visual communication students preparing for internships or seniors preparing for design practice, This course may be repeated. Pre-requisites: VISCOM 3001 and VISCOM 3011.

VISCOM 3011 Intermediate TypographyThis intermediate-level typography class begins by examining information theory in relation to the use of type and the organization of language in print. The course then progresses through a study of experimental typography in contemporary design movements. A student’s portfolio must be pre-approved by the Visual Communication department prior to enrollment in this course.Prerequisite: VISCOM 2001 and VISCOM 2011.

VISCOM 3042 Digital Interaction DesignThis course is an introduction to the realm of interaction design. The fundamentals of programming are covered, exploring the syntactical and mathematical rigors of the process while pursuing the expressive potential of self-generated code. Additionally, the class addresses the emerging possibilities of dynamic environments. How are composition and structure reinterpreted when all elements of a project can be manipulated in real-time? How are traditional designer-determined hierarchies disrupted by user input and computer-triggered random events? How is the reading of information altered when touch, sight, and sound are mixed together? How can designers create responsive, innovative, and satisfying 4-D experiences? Prerequisite: VISCOM 2041.

VISCOM 3045 Interface and Structure: Web Design This course is an introduction to world wide web digital design. The class reviews current visual communication practices on the Internet, considering the basic concepts of information architecture, developing core technical and design competencies, and exploring the fundamentals of motion and interaction design. Students’ projects employ a range of communication metaphors, from static, page-based work to responsive, multimedia-influenced approaches. The class encourages a critical examination of Internet culture, and challenges students to expand the creative potential of the medium. Prerequisite: VISCOM 3001.

VISCOM 3091 Encountering Information: Navigation and Interpretation This course explores the ways we encounter information in physical and virtual worlds. As a starting point, students examine their own navigation of information landscapes, from cities to museums to computer screens. The class studies the similarities and differences of 3D and 4D implementations of interface, navigation and content configuration, to consider the effects of transcoding—how the codes of one medium are transformed in another medium. Students develop useful strategies and methodologies for the planning and structuring of dynamic information architectures in urban, digital or hybrid environments, considering how familiar narrative, cinematic, wayfinding, placemaking or simulation models can be utilized or disrupted. Engaged in readings, discussions, critical writings and conceptual exercises, students explore how experiential issues (access, control, autonomy and sensation) and identity issues (race, gender, class and sexuality) affect our interaction with and interpretation of real or virtual spaces. Prerequisite: VISCOM 3002.

VISCOM 3111 Letterpress Bookworks Students in this course design and produce visual communication via the letterpress method, with emphasis upon the integration of materials, structure, and content within visual/verbal formats such as single sheets, traditional books, artist’s books, and 3-D sculptural multiples. Instruction encourages an interdisciplinary approach with a thrust toward expanding the media’s boundaries. Lectures and video documentaries provide a historical and cultural context for type design and the printing revolution. Field trips provide exposure to the expanding applicability of letterpress in contemporary design. This course may be repeated for credit, to allow intermediate and advanced undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to broaden and refine their skills through technical and theoretical problem-solving that focuses on the creation of meaning through independent, self-structured projects.Prerequisite: VISCOM 2001 and VISCOM 2011 or signature.

VISCOM 3122 Digital Imaging Technologies LabAn intermediate-level course which applies Adobe Photoshop and digital input devices to the creation of images for design. Students learn image editing and compositing techniques, color management, basic pre-press and screen-based preparation, and the interface of Photoshop with other programs. Projects will explore image-driven design problems.Prerequisite: 2002 or signature.

VISCOM 3126 The Graphic Book: Narrative Strategies (Interdisciplinary Studio) This course is a workshop to create graphic books based on narrative theories of prose fiction and semiotics of visual communication. Narrative strategies will be analyzed in media ranging from early incunabula and illuminated manuscripts to advertising layouts, illustrated books, and graphic novels. Emphasis will be given on ‘temporal/spatial’ modes of media: books will combine the grammar of prose and film (temporal in essence) with the grammar of visual communication (spatial in essence). Students will develop layout structures and graphic vocabularies informed by theory.Prerequisites: VISCOM 2001 and VISCOM 2011.

VISCOM 3131 Package DesignStudents produce simple and complex three-dimensional studies. Principles of abstraction combined with packaging construction techniques serve as the basis for developing solutions. A variety of assignments are given that explore the integration of typography, image, and form. Prerequisites: VISCOM 2001 and VISCOM 2011.

VISCOM 3191 Truth, Perception and Storytelling (Interdisciplinary Studio) A multi-level class using multiple-page forms (such as the book) as well as paper architecture such as movable paper structures to explore notions of truth in expression. How can a fictional approach help us express emotional “truths?” How can multiple and contradictory views of a situation reveal “truth?” How can perception or beliefs be called into question through story construction? Students explore issues/events of personal interest and then construct their own visual/verbal stories. Explorations involving multiple viewpoints, linear and non-linear narratives, and a variety of structural techniques are incorporated in the class.

VISCOM 3192 Color Codes: Text/Image/Form(Interdisciplinary studio) This multilevel critique seminar is an expanded exploration of color in design, considering alternative perceptual, chromatic, technical, and conceptual theories, as well as relevant literary mediations on color. Students’ design processes are informed by the histories, theories, associations, stylizations and symbolisms of color; their design work will be transformed and activated by deploying alternative strategies of coloration. Students develop, present and discuss new or recolorized design projects in their area of interest-2-D, 3-D or 4-D-to articulate a critique of their own work as well as the work of others. Prerequisite: VISCOM 2001.

VISCOM 3291 Design IssuesA topical review of issues affecting the contemporary design field. This course includes reading, lectures, and discussions of design developments within their social context.

VISCOM 3293 Women and Design (Interdisciplinary Studio) This course examines the impact of feminine gender issues on graphics, marketing, advertising, interior design, and product design, using historical and contemporary U.S. examples. Along with these gender issues, students will explore the influence of design on American society and culture. Case studies include the design of the telephone (as discussed in design curator Ellen Lupton’s Mechanical Brides) and marketing for girls (as in play at American Girl Place). We also explore the contemporary impact of the practices of women designers such as Lorraine Wild, Marlene McCarty, and Sheila Levrant de Bretteville. Course readings include texts by architectural historian Dolores Hayden, design historian Penny Sparke, historian Victoria de Grazia, and others. Students will investigate the role of the emotional, the “rational,” the factual, and the fictive when expressing social issues. Through combining image and text students experiment with narratives based on traditional linear structure, non-traditional linear structures, as well as experimental and non-linear structures. The course will interweave reading and discussion with studio practice. Studio sessions will focus on how designers develop a deep understanding of communicating to an audience/viewer. Using the context of gender as a model, students will explore how individual concerns, when based in gender, race, sexual orientation, class, or other social issues, can be combined with knowledge of visual communication strategies to create effective personal expression in design. No previous studio experience is required. Prerequisite: ARTHI 1001 and 1002.

VISCOM 3921 Scientific IllustrationThis course introduces the use of visual representation for presenting scientific research findings. Focus is placed on translating the three-dimensional aspects of natural forms into illustrations, and on using drawing techniques to communicate scientific specifications.

VISCOM 3922 Natural History Illustration This course deals with painting plants, birds, and various types of animals in a representational manner. Botanical structure and basic anatomy are covered, as well as specific morphological information on plant textures, feathers, and fur. Watercolor and gouache are used.

VISCOM 3982 Marketing of the New Age (Interdisciplinary Seminar) No previous studio work in the design field is required.

VISCOM 3983 Corporate Culture and Alternative Visions (Interdisciplinary Seminar) The visual identities of corporations, the look of their products, and the appearance of their self-promotions are dominant aspects of our broader visual culture in the U.S. This course asks questions about the visualization of corporate culture and the designer’s role. Is there an outside to corporate culture? Are there variations of expressions within it? What about the designer’s power in general to intervene in mass visual communication and participate in a democratic exchange of images? To create visions alternative to corporate ones? The course combines reading, discussion, writing, and studio work.No previous studio work in the design field is required.

VISCOM 4000 Independent Projects: Visual CommunicationIndependent Projects gives the student the opportunity to explore a specific problem in the student’s area of concentration, carried out independently but with a faculty adviser. A schedule of conferences is usually established at the beginning of the semester. Instructor signature required for registration.Open to students at junior level and above.

VISCOM 4001 Advanced Studio 6 credits: team taught 6-hour critique seminarIn this team-taught studio course, students will have the opportunity to explore a specific design problem in the student’s area of concentration and develop it thoroughly and comprehensively as a thesis throughout the semester. Work is carried out independently and discussed twice a week in a critique seminar format. It is expected that the thesis work generated in this class will be exhibited in the BFA show or in another venue or format. Students must submit a proposal to be admitted to Advanced Studio and have the signature of one of the two instructors to register for this course.Open to seniors only.Prerequisites: VISCOM 3002, (3) Viscom studio electives and signature.

VISCOM 4011 Advanced TypographyExtensive development of the visual impact of language. Through typography, students communicate metaphor, humor, contradiction, and the multidimensional aspects of language. Students explore the complex possibilities of visualizing the verbal language. Prerequisite: VISCOM 3011.

VISCOM 4041 Interface/Interaction: Designing ExperiencesThis class covers the process of creating the relationship between the user and the interface. The student learns to design solid user experience through studying color and type on the screen to information architecture, web accessibility, and user research methods and analysis. This class also covers common mistakes in user interface design and user research techniques. Upon completion the student is able to design and user-proof an interactive design project. Examples of topics include:1. Designing Visual Interfaces with the User as Partner2. Psychology and Psychopathology of Design3. User Inspection Tools4. Information Architecture5. Ethnography and Field ObservationPrerequisite: VISCOM 3002.

VISCOM 4121 Brand IdentityIn this advanced studio course, students research, design and apply brand identity systems of varying levels, from simple to complex. Students explore various practical facets of identity development: brand exploration, brand briefs, logo design, identity standards and identity application. Throughout the process, the course demonstrates how effective branding can expand a client’s visual vocabulary and actually shift a company’s culture.Prerequisite: VISCOM 3002

VISCOM 4122 Advanced Digital Pre-Press ProductionThis course covers detailed production issues when preparing digital-based art for printing. A wide range of information is included, such as color calibration, film separation for both flat color and four-color process printing, issues related to translation into reflective color, and traditional offset printing, as well as smaller edition computer-based printing. Prerequisites: VISCOM 1002 and VISCOM 2001.

VISCOM 4131 Packaging: Stimulus and ResponsePackaged consumer products and environment are analyzed for their ability to attract and motivate audience involvement. Controlling form and content relationships as well as depictions of products and ideas are design strategies for motivating audiences. Students produce packaging solutions, addressing issues of containment, transportability, attraction, presentation, communication, and reuse for a variety of products and ideas. Prerequisites: VISCOM 3131 and VISCOM 3011.

VISCOM 4135 Communication Environment (Interdisciplinary Studio) This multilevel studio course is an introduction to the expanded realm of three-dimensional communication design within urban, retail or museum environments. At this interdisciplinary crossroads, students are introduced to spatial design, methodologies, three-dimensional form development, planning and programming strategies, human-centered design factors, and urban sociologies that are unique to design of experimental communications. Exploring issues of wayfinding/navigation (providing information, orientation, direction, identification or restriction), interpretation/placemaking (providing narrative, information, memorialization, and contextualization), students consider how the human experience of interior and exterior spaces can be orchestrated. Students develop communication design programs within their specific area of interest (urban, retail or museum).Prerequisite: VISCOM 2001.

VISCOM 4221Design Directive Seminar In this advanced seminar, students explore how design (and design practitioners) function within or as part of larger socioeconomic systems. Through case projects, intended to replicate the messy real world, teams of students investigate the rational, psychological, and economic dimensions of design problems and wield a systems approach to assess audience, its concerns, and the effects of competition on establishing direction for design. The class will also review business models that support the organization of strong design teams and help students to develop presentation skills.Prerequisite: VISCOM 3002

VISCOM 4340 Interactive Information Architechture (Interdisciplinary Studio) This advanced transdisciplinary studio course addresses issues of electronic information architecture by applying a combination of design theories from the fields of visual communication and interior architecture. Students draw from both disciplines to employ strategies for analyzing and organizing complex activities and information. Diagrams are used as a planning method to see connections and pathways through complex sets of information. Students model from architecture (to analyze complex sets of activities and behaviors by visualizing relational patterns) and from visual communication (to visualize patterns inherent in complex information in order to create cognitive maps that organize information into interactive visual systems). The explosion of information on the Internet through the World-Wide Web necessitates new strategies for design that incorporate multiple layers of information, and that can transform in time and space. Student explorations result in the development of Web-based projects and interactive CD-ROM projects which may be integrated into specific physical environments. Recommended background: Advanced capabilities in technology (familiarity with software like Macromedia Director, Form Z, etc.) or permission of the instructor.

VISCOM 4981 Imaging Nations: Myth to Media(Interdisciplinary Seminar)This seminar investigates the intertwining of visual culture and nationalism.Drawing on cultural studies, visual anthropology, and scholarship onnationalism, we examine how imagery can be used to inscribe and/or subvertspecific notions of religion, race, class, gender, and sexuality within nationsand national communities. Case studies include national tourism and brandingcampaigns, design in the service of nationalism, Rosie the Riveter and LeniRienfenstahl’s controversial Nazi film Triumph of the Will, the First NationsExhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian, the myth of Dracula ofRomania, televised soap operas in India, documentation of the 9/11 andHurricane Katrina tragedies in the U.S, and Iranian film making in exile.