Capstones

Permanent URI for this community

https://hdl.handle.net/10217/180165

These digital collections contain Department of Art and Art History capstone projects from 2012 to present, organized into themes by studio art concentration.

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 873

Open Access
Katherine Hess: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Hess, Katherine, artist
Open Access
Vicki Gillis: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Gillis, Vicki, artist
The artist's statement: Creativity is a limitless universal resource. There is something empowering about creating something and having it make a difference in someone else's world. Graphic design is a universal language when words are not necessary to communicate because visual art speaks to all people and across all borders. During this time at Colorado State University in the Graphic Design program, I have seen how much design is a part of our daily lives. From ephemeral items such as gum wrappers to huge billboards, graphic design informs, persuades, organizes, stimulates, locates, identifies, attracts attention and provides pleasure. Through my completion of design assignments I have gained access into every one of these situations. In the creation of logos, business stationery, posters, magazine ads, and website design not only have I touched upon the everyday application of my design skills, but also upon the people involved from my professors, my classmates, and others who have so generously given of their time and knowledge, and whose image may have been included in my design idea. As a designer, everything from sunrises to storms to walks in the park, or visits to a museum make me better at what I do. I see the world differently because of my design education. I understand meaning, beauty and creativity in everyday activities. I enjoy playing with colors and shapes. I guess I never outgrew the joy of my crayon box!
Open Access
Mikhail Twarogowski: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Twarogowski, Mikhail, artist
Open Access
Rob Lacy: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Lacy, Rob, artist
Open Access
Robin Lewis: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Lewis, Robin, artist
Open Access
Lisa Shipley: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2012) Shipley, Lisa, artist
Open Access
Kimberly Graves: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Graves, Kimberly, artist
The artist's statement: The subject of "stuff people eat" interested me both visually and conceptually. These items of food are beautiful in a way that we don't often notice. It is rare to really pay attention to the structure and colors of food while you're preparing it, and even rarer to see photographs of food that play up these same attributes. I've always been attracted to pattern and structure, so working with food at my day job gave me glimpses into its unique beauty and motivated me to explore this further. Something that makes food even more visually appealing is its connection to us. Food can be soft, meaty, fleshy, all of which mimic our own humanity and invoke a kind of visceral feeling. This also shows up because food is the very stuff that keeps each of us alive. It is so necessarily integrated in each of our lives that we feel an automatic connection to it.
Open Access
Matthew Workman: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Workman, Matthew, artist
The artist's statement: The path I have followed to become a graphic designer can be traced back to my early childhood. Throughout my school career, my notebooks were often filled with more drawings and doodles than actual notes. Even from my earliest memories, I recall being fascinated by the interaction of light and color: the patterns and emotions created by stacking one color of LEGO brick on top of another; the contrast between my mother's bright red coat and the brilliant white field of snow in which we stood. This journey of artistic development was long and winding, as I traveled the world and dabbled in different careers in fields as diverse as writing, truck driving, chemistry and even baking. Through it all, however, I remained interested in creating and viewing art. In particular, the bright, bold colors of the graphic arts captured and held my attention. I enrolled in the graphic design program at Colorado State University and never looked back. As I progressed through the program, I exposed myself to the work of designers past and present, from Saul Bass to Jessica Hische. Ultimately, I discovered my strengths in illustration, typography and web design. I now aim to help make the world a more engaging and beautiful place through the power of good design and visual communication.
Open Access
Paige Schreckengast: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Schreckengast, Paige, artist
The artist's statement: My work is inspired by an investigation of Ghanaian textiles, such as Kente and Adinkra cloth, as well as Muslim architecture, which I have discovered in my recent travels. I am interested in the breaking down of geometry within these textiles and buildings to create dynamic patterning. I start with a series of drawings and paper models that reflect this patterning and geometry and then translate my ideas into clay forms. Drawings and paper models allow me to focus on my forms both as individual shapes and as grouping to form larger multiples. Once I have found an interesting shape, one that allows for a sense of edge contrasted with a quality of softness, I am able to determine what aspects of my ideas are working towards consistent forms that are easy to replicate. I use the multiples I construct as a building block with which I can then create a visual narrative of my investigations. Through the aggregation of a family of shapes, such as a grouping of rectangular forms, I seek to develop individualized units through a narrative of my process and touch. Each form is unique and through the collection of these forms one begins to see the variations. I see the individual unit as inadequate, a fraction in a larger spectrum. Through replication I arrive at a series of pieces, and it is only through the rhythmic patterning of the multiple forms and shapes that I discover a feeling of an expansive aesthetic. I aim to create a sense that the composition holds no ending and that my process of replication could continue to create an innumerous amount of forms.
Open Access
Karen Eichel: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Eichel, Karen, artist
The artist's statement: "We tell those things that we feel have a chance poetically of fitting back into life. That means fitting back into the feelings of other people." - Emmet Gowin. I am inspired by the people around me. These photographs are simply my own experiences of life. The action of photographing a person allows others to see aspects, features, and characteristics about a person that create comparisons and evoke emotions within the viewer allowing them to relate the images to their own life, and the people around them. Through these images I explored my own experiences, and the time of which I am living my life at this very moment. All of these images address a unique time period in a person's life; the time of young adulthood; a unique time period that is ever changing. Each photograph captures a moment in time that will never be again for that person or for us as a viewer to experience. It only exists as an image. All prints are Color Projection Prints $225 Framed $150 Print Only.
Open Access
Ian Smith: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Smith, Ian, artist
The artist's statement: Throughout my years here at CSU, I have been exposed to many varying forms of contemporary art. The work I have created reflects my appreciation for art history and shows my understanding of the impact that various movements continue to have on art today. Dadaism, Cubism, Surrealism, Art Nouveau, High Renaissance, and Neo-Dada are all movements that I like to draw inspiration from in my work. From an early age I was initially drawn to the works of Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso for their surreal imagery and their escape from visual norms. Based on my studies of art history here at CSU, I came to love the works by artists such as Rene Magritte, Georges Braque, Joan Miro, Alphonse Mucha, Raphael, Georgia O'Keeffe and Robert Rauschenberg. As far as contemporary graphic design goes, my idols include Saul Bass, Milton Glaser, Shigeo Fukuda, and Leonardo Sonnoli. The illustrations I have created are all reminiscent of a personal style I am attempting to create using primarily pencil and ink for medium combined with the various styles mentioned above. My typographic layouts are structured and employ the use of keen organization and hierarchy. Overall, I would say that my work is more on the illustration side of the graphic design world and I would like to continue pushing my self towards becoming an illustrator for posters, books, editorials, etc. The work I enjoy making the most are drawings that reflect my personality while also effectively symbolizing the subject I am depicting. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at CSU and specifically would like to thank Phil Risbeck, John Gravdahl, Eli Hall, Marius Lehene, Michael Fenton, and Ajean Ryan for pushing me to create works that became progressively more meaningful and important to contemporary art and my psyche.
Open Access
Drake Fontana: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Fontana, Drake, artist
The artist's statement: Effective brand communication in today's marketplace is a complex and massive undertaking. With shifting demographics and media platforms the consumer is both more in tune and out of touch with producing brands. The ability to understand this complex cultural landscape of our planet is more important than ever. Through the study of history and design I have attained the skills necessary to effectively comprehend and decipher the complex cultural interactions of our time. This unique mix of visual communication skills and cultural understanding allows me as a designer to make the personal bond between consumer and brand stronger, clearer, more efficient, and longer lasting. A tailored suit always fits better than the mass produced. Design is only as good as the story behind it. I used to think good design was something you learned from a textbook. Do things line up? Is there good use of color and space?; all of the formal artistic requirements. But a brand, a good design, not only captures the attention of an audience, whom doesn't want to listen or be influenced, it lingers in the mind, the subconscious. And for those who care to ask, care to listen, there is a story in the details that embodies the spirit of the entity it represents. The message isn't just simply that 'we are here' and 'this is what we do/offer.' The story is 'this is who we are', 'this is the way we can make your life better.' We want to share ourselves with you, and if you're listening, we hope you like what you hear and come share with us some of you; money, time, or otherwise. It's a true connection between sender and receiver. Something that is personal and genuine. Something that is built on trust, and clarity that generates loyalty. A good story teaches you lessons on life; shows you different perspectives of the world. Whether you agree or disagree is of no confidence, as long as you understand. People don't want to be influenced, but to be influenced is to not have the confidence to say no. A good story doesn't involuntarily impose influence on the audience. In the same way, good design allows for an audience to feel comfortable enough to listen. And once their minds and ears are open hopefully the story is meaningful enough and influential enough to garner a positive reaction of acceptance. Like a good movie or book, good design is a window, an acceptable vehicle to carry a message or lesson to an audience. There are millions of books, movies, designs, and advertisements, but only the good once make an audience want to delve into the details for more. Or come to your destination in the case of advertising.
Open Access
Kole Kostelic: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Kostelic, Kole, artist
The artist's statement: Learning Graphic Design here at CSU has afforded many unique and valuable opportunities. I am especially excited to commence my journey outside of school and find work in Northern Colorado. Through my studies here at CSU I have taken a great interest in typography, branding and motion graphics. I have gained experience through my school and through external jobs and internships. During these opportunities I learned that conferring with clients and especially collaborating with team members and clients are especially important in how I want to work in the future. Coming together with others to create something beautiful is perhaps my favorite part of this profession and I will try to keep it pure as I continue working in this field. Design has come to be a very important part of my life, a part of my everyday schedule, and something I get excited about. Starting new projects with teams and friends is exciting, and seeing them finished, the good it brings the clients and the community is most rewarding.
Open Access
Kacey Underwood: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Underwood, Kacey, artist
The artist's statement: I am dedicated to the presentation of information in the most effective way. I believe that a designed world, in which communication is clear and aesthetic is upheld, is our zenith to strive for. I find inspiration in great ideas, design, and beauty all around me. My most passionate work applies the tool of graphic design and typography to answering to environmental health and social concerns. Still, I find a joy in expressing the beauties of nature, love, music, and cuisine, paying a respect to their subtleties, tactility, and delicacy.
Open Access
Bradley Niedt: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Niedt, Bradley, artist
The artist's statement: This project, Distilling Discovery, began about a year ago with the realization that my artwork tends to form itself into metaphysical spaces. As far back as I can remember, I have yearned to discover new places, places that no one has ever seen or touched. My process of drawing in this series allows me to discover these places as they come into the physical world. These spaces are constructed and controlled within my mind. I invite my viewers to explore these spaces and discover the details within.
Open Access
Tyler Bathen: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Bathen, Tyler, artist
The artist's statement: I utilize the process of art to communicate, create, and produce an effective message. I develop a process of creative intuition and express it through digital media. I find that it is the most effective form of output an artist can utilize. Upon graduation, I wish to become a successful strategic branding specialist, junior level designer, or associate creative director. After years of service I hope to ascend accordingly and possibly provide commercial entrepreneurial services. I do believe in the process and benefits of concentrated creativity.
Open Access
Jasara Simon: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Simon, Jasara, artist
The artist's statement: Much of my inspiration comes from the world that surrounds me. I explore physical wonder of natural forms, as well as my own immersion into spirituality and spiritual art forms. Through my art I aim to connect these two concepts, incorporating natural imagery in both my jewelry and photographic work in conjunction with the human form. By doing so I convey my own belief in our physical and spiritual connection with our earth. In my metal work I do this through incorporating stones and crystals, which I believe to have healing and metaphysical properties, into the natural flow of my designs. In my "Moon-Phase" piece for example, I use the phases of the moon as well as a moonstone to illustrate phases of change and growth; just as our moon goes through phases of change, so do we. The metaphysical properties of moonstone are said to be extremely powerful, especially for women, aiding in intuitive sensitivity as well as helping to increase one's ability to be flexible and flow with life. By connecting both material and imagery I express my desire to flow with the changes and phases of my life, experiencing more balance and harmony with myself and the world. This same idea can be found in my photographic work, in which I have merged the female form with close up nature scenes. By blending these images together I want to directly express my feelings of unity with our earth and the spiritual bond that all humans have with our universe. Throughout all my work I remind the viewer of this deep connection which often tends to get lost in the bustle of everyday life. In doing so I create an understanding that we are not separate from our earth; thus we must develop a greater sense of responsibility in taking care of our home and preserving its natural beauty.
Open Access
Kelly Turner: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Turner, Kelly, artist
The artist's statement: Summit County is a second home to me, it is a place of work, life, and recreation in between my school and studies. Although I know the area well, spending time up there has given me a chance as a photographer to explore the mountains and lifestyle through the lens of a camera. Using square format film, I wanted to portray the essence of my experiences. Revealing the people, various locations and sights of significant importance to me. In capturing views, I began to construct a different sense of the mountain landscape. I decided to photograph a piece of the lifestyle that is universal to the recreation but can only be Summit County.
Open Access
Jeremy A. Greene: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Greene, Jeremy A., artist
The artist's statement: I paint beautiful things for people to look at. The world is too dull a place, and I am bringing a level of excitement to the table that is unparalleled by any computer or the idea of mass production. My paintings are best viewed as a whole from a distance, however, at a close range they come to life with activity. This creates an imbalance in the force and truly reflects how I see the world. It is also very confusing to look at, so I ask that the pieces be viewed from about 10' away, and again from about 1' or 2'. After both have been done you will understand. In my painting career, which has spanned over a decade now, I have been painting in a way that brings humor to the heart. There are strange things going on in my work, but that's the only hint you get. I make the work I do for therapeutic reasons: to keep myself from freaking out. In a world where everything is confusing to me, painting is a way for me to capture what I might have lost. I am capturing contemporary life and eschewing it in a way that brings traditional methods of making art into a new light. I use color to convey the deep emotions that my paintings express. I entangle my subject matter in a paradoxical way with the bright colors I use, making a statement on the fucked up world we live in. Pink is my most frequently used color, and that's funny to me due to the fact that it makes most uncomfortable. I expect my viewers to fall in love with my work or be bothered by it, due to the areas of intense activity. My work makes love to your mind in ways that can't be understood. My canvases are even built in a haphazard way, which helps in portraying the message that you are seeing a glimpse of time through the eyes of a survivor of a Traumatic Brain Injury. I build my canvases quickly so that I do not forget my idea; I paint quickly for the same reason. I also work on surfaces I find, which is perfect for instant expression.
Open Access
Sarah Christine Fleming: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Fleming, Sarah Christine, artist
The artist's statement: Throughout my school career in the field of graphic design I have always tried to focus the context of my work on three different aspects: experimentalism, pop art, and functionality. There is no better time to experiment with different mediums and processes than when you are a student. That's why I found it in my best interest to experiment as much as possible. Becoming familiar with different mediums and processes not only expands the diversity of my work but it also adds elements of surprise. When using new mediums or methods for the first time you never know what you will end up with and it is for that reason I was drawn to trying new things. Although I have used many different artists, works and types of art for inspiration I think my work best fits in the category of pop art. Since graphic design in today's society is mostly used to communicate ideas and concepts to the masses, such as with advertising and print media, it goes hand in hand with pop art and functionality. Most of the pieces that I produced have a significant purpose such as magazine spread, package design, logo design, advertising, posters, etc. With that said each of my works had to be a solution to combining both creativity and functionality.