Graphic Design

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https://hdl.handle.net/10217/180169

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Open Access
Aaron Cooper: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2015) Cooper, Aaron, artist
The artist's statement: As a designer, I am a firm believer in creating a bold statement. In order to create a clean design, you must also "un-design," removing any elements that are unnecessary. With design I am able to form an underlying grid, where every element finds itself aligned with another element or shape on the page. I often simplify objects into their most basic elements in order to create an interesting, uncluttered design. I utilize type in a large amount of my work. I enjoy typography as an art as well as a means of communication. By contrasting bold type with thinner alternatives one can lead the viewer's eye throughout the page. Highlighting important information in a contrasting font can create an interesting design element to designate a bold focal point on the page to draw the viewer into the piece. I begin a piece by sketching out some basic layouts by hand. This helps me to get an idea of the best way to align the information in an eye- catching way while remaining legible and easy for the viewer to follow and it also allows me to get out all of my ideas while building off of others. After I have worked out these ideas manually, I bring them to life on the computer. During this process I will often find that my original idea on paper does not perfectly translate when the exact proportions are presented. The layouts are adjusted to the needs of the design. My favorite software is Photoshop because it allows for alignment as well as many tools such as filters and effects in order to achieve the perfect project allowing for endless inspiration and possibilities. When creating my designs I begin with establishing which piece of information should be the focal point of the piece. I then place the other elements on the page asymmetrically aligning with specific points on the focal point, as well as aligning with the other images and text used throughout the piece. I believe that the best designs appear to have their components distributed randomly throughout the page; but one finds that every element is specifically aligned to another found in the piece. My work describes me as an artist as well as a person. As a stubborn perfectionist, my designs reflect my personality by carefully placing components in relation to one another while maintaining an edginess that makes them unique. I have always attempted to add an element of my eccentricity into my work to show a piece of myself through my designs. In something as simple as my magazine spread, although it is extremely precise and technical, I tried to use bold and colorful photos to liven the design and show my personality. However, I believe that a design must ultimately speak for its self to be considered truly successful. If I have done a good job on my work, my personality should be able to shine through the typography and reflect me as a designer.
Open Access
Abigail Cohen: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Cohen, Abigail, artist
The artist's statement: Graphic Design provides diversity in product and content. It asks you to solve a problem creatively and to communicate visually and effectively. In my work I strive to create design solutions that are both clear in function and are aesthetically pleasing. I like to employ my skills of illustration and hand lettering to create unique pieces.
Open Access
Abigail Curran: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Curran, Abigail, artist
The artist's statement: I have never had a personal connection to the label "graphic design" because that does not eloquently describe how I create. I have always been very passionate and caring about other people no matter how familiar I am with them and I like to approach my designs in a similar way. I listen to what is generally expected and I add my own sense of personality to that conversation through bold color, playful typography, and composition that really activates the space it consumes. My goal with design is not only functionality but also personality, to create an experience that surprises people like a great plot twist in a novel. I want people to look at something that may seem ordinary and appreciate the joy of surprise. My illustration style is a mixture of surrealistic whimsy and stylized realism that I create both digitally and traditionally. My typography is compartmentalized, bold, and playful like me. My work is me; quirky, elegant, humorous, quick witted, intellectual and adaptive. The interpersonal relationship I aim to create between type and imagery is a conversation that I treat with the same attention and care that I would with people I talk to. My current work focuses primarily on how my arrangement of type and image evoke different emotion and elements of surprise. My intent is to communicate my passion and personality through my design by stimulating people's curiosity in what could have been mundane. I want to elevate the ordinary objects people use every day and give them personality not just functionality.
Open Access
Abigail Flitton: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2021) Flitton, Abigail, artist
The artist's statement: As an illustrator and designer, I strive to use my skills in drawing and storytelling to create compelling and functional work. Hand-drawn type is a common feature within my work. I also explore the ways in which traditional art media can be melded within the digital world, in order to build off of the foundations of vector illustration and inorganic typography. My work is diverse, showcasing my whimsical illustration style when appropriate, yet utilizing essential design elements of typography and hierarchy to function as a communication tool.
Open Access
Abigail Howshar: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2023) Howshar, Abigail, artist
The artist's statement: As a graphic designer, I am passionate about creating visually compelling designs that effectively communicate a message or tell a story. Being born and raised in Colorado my work is deeply influenced by the natural beauty and the environment. I am constantly inspired by the colors, textures, and patterns found in the mountains and cities that surround me. My goal is to create designs that not only look beautiful but also serve a functional purpose. Whether it's a logo, a website, or a print advertisement, I strive to create designs that capture the essence of a brand or project and resonate with its intended audience. I believe that design is about connecting people on another level. I approach each project with attention to detail and a deep understanding of the principles of design. I first begin my process by researching trends and topics as well as the target audience. Then I define my project by sketching and creating mood boards. Next, I create, refine, and present my final production while leaving room for review and evaluation. Each project and client are unique, and it is my job to ensure that their vision is brought to life. Ultimately, my goal as a graphic designer is to create designs that inspire and engage people, while also helping clients and businesses achieve their goals. Whether it's through typography, color, or composition, I strive to create designs that leave a lasting impression and make a positive impact. I am constantly exploring new techniques and always learning. No matter where my work takes me, I will always be rooted in my love of nature that Colorado has raised me with.
Open Access
Adam Maxwell: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2016) Maxwell, Adam, artist
The artist's statement: As an artist I've always felt like I walk a fine line between art and business, and I have been trying to resolve that for most of my college career. Then I came across a quote from the famous designer Henrik Fiskar, "If design isn't profitable then it's art" and this really managed to sum up my thoughts. I am an artist and creative type, but my context isn't some social or political issue, its business. I used to joke about being a mercenary artist, but as time goes on this playful jibe has become closer to the truth. I am always trying to push artistic boundaries, find new trends, and try new ideas, but in a modern world I find that money is my biggest motivator. My art isn't for me; it's for my boss and for the public at large. We are surrounded on all sides by advertisement and branding at all times. So why shouldn't it be good design? I have the skills and the capability of making the world a more beautiful place. The most successful brands in America that become household names such as Tesla, Beats by Dre, and Apple all build from the idea of design, and usability. Many people buy these products because of their design and branding. It's about the image these things create, and the brand that has been built around them. This is where I make my difference.
Open Access
Alanis Hernandez: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2022) Hernandez, Alanis, artist
The artist's statement: My illustrations and prints mostly center around my identity and cultural heritage, specifically about what it means to be a first generation Latina living in the United States. My art has allowed me to create depictions of my family and cultural roots. One of my main goals is to focus on all parts of my lived experiences both good and bad. Being able to tell stories of my community is an essential aspect of my art and expression. In my work I often like to juxtapose happy and bright imagery with concepts and storytelling of my hardships and struggles I’ve had to face. I do most of my work digitally and through printmaking, though I don't limit myself to solely those mediums. My art process typically entails days of brainstorming followed by initial sketches. Initial sketches and ideas are typically the longest part of my process as I like to pursue a variety of different ideas until one stands out to me most. Once I have an idea that works best to me I am able to hone in on details and final adjustments fairly quickly. I enjoy experimenting with different techniques and often combine both digital and printmaking. A lot of my work can be characterized often through bold strokes, vibrant color palettes and a lot of texture. These elements are what allow me to best create a relationship between my identity and art.
Open Access
Albert Tang: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Tang, Albert, artist
The artist's statement: Due to my interest in computer game animation and character design as a career, many of my projects were geared toward that sense as well as what benefits it may bring. In particular, most of my projects were geared at brand recognition and mass advertising, which resulted in my focus on creating posters which catch the attention of viewers but simple enough that it could be captivating with as little information about them. Also for one semester I took the Motion Graphics course to broaden my knowledge on animation and application of such. This resulted in my interest in Typographical animations and their use as advertisements over conventional game footage trailers or heavy CG produced set plays. The branding and logo designs were based off of my knowledge on simple yet captivating in trying to come up with a design which would be easily recognizable yet unique to the company. Many of my projects deal heavily in type face choice and their space location with possible animation objects. Many of these projects have broaden my interest on the applications of Type in animation and character design as well as a further understanding on their application.
Open Access
Alec Broughton: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2019) Broughton, Alec, artist
The artist's statement: In a time where authenticity is lacking in the interactions between brands and their audience, it is ever more apparent how important it is to be genuine. We live in a digital age where computers do the majority of the work for us. The pencil and paper have been replaced with the computer. Many modern brands are lacking in honesty and craft because of this and in the digital age, brands blend and meld together, none more unique than the other. I intend to create authentic and genuine artifacts. I use traditional tools along with modern technology to create visual works that transcend traditional elements. The most important aspect of my work is the most human: craft. Everything begins with a pencil and paper. When a viewer can tell that the work behind a product is carefully crafted, it instantly helps to build rapport before they even interact. The brand, the designer, and the viewer all have a similar goal: to strive greatness with the presence of imperfection. I draw a lot of my inspiration from the design of America and Europe in the early 20th century. The importance of detail paramount in this era. There are such small parts of the finished product that complete the overall vision of the artist. Designers like Herb Lubalin, Alexander Rodchenko, and Saul Bass were pioneers in design and art during a time where innovation was the cornerstone of our culture. I create to provide a feeling of nostalgia, like a distant memory which we wish to rediscover. I strive to be a good designer, a good father, a good brother, a good son... and to leave a legacy that lasts through my work.
Open Access
Alec Monck: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2015) Monck, Alec, artist
The artist's statement: As a graphic designer, I have always been fascinated with layouts and how simplicity can create the best message. Whenever I purchase something, I always take note of the package design first. Because of this, I want to help contribute to the world of design by creating my own images and layouts that help reflect what the overall importance of the object is and help make it easily accessible to everyone. I want to combine my talents for illustration and design to create works that stand out above the rest. This will be a difficult task due to the over-saturation of the design market right now, but I am confident in my skills and I know I can do it.
Open Access
Alex Gianopoulos: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2014) Gianopoulos, Alex, artist
The artist's statement: My work is at its deepest root a reflection of my growth as a student and a person at Colorado State University. I put everything I have into my art and at the end of any given project I have grown as a result. Art to me is when someone dedicates time, passion and attention to a visual art. I do not view myself as a designer. I am wholeheartedly a student of art. I instead view myself as a passionate, young artist who wants to learn more about the trade than four years of school could ever teach me. The beautiful thing about what I have created here at Colorado State University isn't the aesthetics of it. It is the ability to grow and learn from it. My work at CSU is the foundation for the remainder of my art career. More important than any technical skill I developed was the development of my thought process. I learned how I think, how to challenge it, and how to grow from that. I do not know exactly where I fit in the context of contemporary art. I do not compare myself next to other artists. What makes beautiful art is the expression of that "thing" that makes us all human. Instead of comparing myself to others, I try to communicate with myself to express the vision of my art that makes me so undeniably unique. I believe it is that uniqueness that ironically connects us all. I want to thank all of my professors for helping me grow. Specifically, I wish to thank Patrice Sullivan, John Gravdahl, and Erika Osborne. Our interactions made me grow as a student, an artist, and a human being.
Open Access
Alexandra Barnes: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2014) Barnes, Alexandra, artist
The artist's statement: I have always had a strange fascination with typefaces and handwriting, but it was not until I was living in Africa that it struck me that I wanted to be a graphic designer. At the time, the power was out and I was entertaining myself by illustrating mandalas and I realized art was what I wanted to do with my life. I was not positive I would like creating art on the computer since any artwork I had experience with was through more traditional means, but I need not have worried. Posters and illustrations are my absolute favorite and the computer is a fun medium to accomplish both. One day, I hope to design book covers, as I love to read. However, for now, graphic design is such fun for me, that any path that involves designing will make me happy.
Open Access
Alexandra Gulyan: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Gulyan, Alexandra, artist
The artist's statement: How can I make something that others will enjoy? This is a question I often ask myself as I work. Life these days can often be hectic and stressful. However, art presents a way to take a step back and smell the flowers, so to speak. As an artist, I aim to create pieces that are visually intriguing to look at. A goal of mine is to create something that will persuade the viewer to take a moment from their busy day and enjoy the small things in life, such as beautiful colors and soft textures. I am drawn towards graphic styles of art, and bright colors are a common theme throughout a lot of my work. I also like to experiment with different concepts, such as dualities in the natural world. I tend to gravitate towards the fiber arts as the medium is versatile and easy to manipulate and I enjoy being able to use the many textures and materials found within the fiber arts. In my graphic design work, I often use color to communicate ideas. I try to stick to clean designs as much as possible because ultimately, the information is what is most important. My goal when working is to let it shine through as much as possible, while still remaining visually interesting.
Open Access
Alexis Anderson: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2015) Anderson, Alexis, artist
The artist's statement: As a graphic design major, a majority of my work is based on client needs. Functionality, an understanding of the problem, and a creative solution to the problem are my goals as an artist. Innovation is what we strive for in the design world. I am no exception. While my task is to fulfill the client's needs and wants, I also do my best to bring my design aesthetic and personality into every piece. Posters are where I have the ability to bring my personality into my work. If the topic allows, I tackle major problems or issues that can ruffle feathers with humor. It's easier to start a discussion and make change through humor and good will. Logo design and branding are areas where I can explore innovation. What is the true core of a message and how can I visually communicate that are the two main questions I ask myself when facing these tasks. Advertisements and packaging fall into this category as well, but the challenge is a little different. The brand and image of the company or person has already been established and I have to work within those standards to make a marketing ploy successful.
Open Access
Ali Okano: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Okano, Ali, artist
The artist's statement: As a designer and illustrator I am most interested in 2-d, surface design. The idea of using visual elements to entice or manipulate people’s perception is fascinating and exciting; for me this makes design the perfect tool to explore the connection between human psychology and symbols, colors and 'iconography'. Decoding why these icons exist and the ways they function in our daily lives is the basis of all my work.
Open Access
Ali Pierce: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Pierce, Ali, artist
The artist's statement: The current visual landscape is incredibly saturate. It seems like everywhere you look, there's optical stimuli fighting for acknowledgement. It's exhausting. In my design practice, I aspire to create imagery that not only grabs viewers' attention but keeps it. I catch eyes by utilizing vibrantly demanding colors and intentional secondary elements that provoke further consideration from the spectator. This can be a play on words, unique illustrations based on backstories, or analog elements like collage that are a bit out of the ordinary. When creating a poster zine detailing cardiovascular disease prevention research, I titled the primary poster "vastacular," combining the words vascular and spectacular to reiterate the positive impact of CVD deterrence. As I designed a T-shirt for United Way of Larimer County, I incorporated landmarks from their regional areas of focus into the illustration, including Horsetooth for Fort Collins, Devils Backbone for Loveland, and Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for Estes. These components invite audiences to take a closer look at my designs and reflect on the associated stories they tell. I am particularly passionate about messaging that advocated for human rights and promotes positive mental health, creating visuals that can have a deeper impact.
Open Access
Alison Blesser: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2015) Blesser, Alison, artist
The artist's statement: My work is created through daily inspirations, be they pop culture, my family, friends, everyday connections, or how I interpret the world around me. I like to create my work digitally, but I often base my work on first interpretations through sketches or physical manipulation of materials. I've always been an artist that enjoys simplicity over complexity, but have the ability to find both in my work when appropriate. The art I create is inspired by my nerdy nature to read books, watch movies, and discuss with family and friends the unique and finite details that I enjoy - and want to create art about. The excited behind the tale of The Odyssey, the complexity of the world created by J. R. R. Tolkien (Middle Earth), or the characters I have fallen in love with reading books over my lifetime, lets me delve into detail about things I love and create art that I am proud of. Whether I'm creating branding material, posters, or layouts - I always strive to find the balance of bringing forward the emotion and message behind the client or topic to my art in a way that accurately represents what I am trying to portray in my creations.
Open Access
Alissa Gigliotti: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2013) Gigliotti, Alissa, artist
The artist's statement: Along with science, I have always had a strong interest in the fine arts, particularly scientific illustration and graphic art. My background is in aquatic biology but I think and interpret visually. I'm also drawn to the arts for their potential as a means for communication and expression. I find that graphic design and illustration provide me with a way to convey my artistic and scientific passion through visual communication while offering a balance between the technical and creative.
Open Access
Allie Leslie: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Leslie, Allie, artist
The artist's statement: As a Graphic Designer and Photographer, I use these titles as the groundwork that allows me to be a spotlight-er and flashlight holder for expression, prospering brands, and businesses. I use my art as a vessel to provide creative offerings to others through digitized nuggets ranging in; the exploration of graphics used to create and compile visual brand language, to frozen snapshots of raw emotion standing through the permeance of real-time. Inside each of these facets, lies the potential to create and sustain new worlds as a hub of fresh perspectives and values. I look forward to the opportunity to keep creating in the realm of providing to others, by continuously passing on what I can provide, which in turn allows me to feel the most fulfilled, soulfully. To me, that is the purpose of art, in the purest, selfless form that it takes, acting as a constant in flux entity that can be morphed and cherished through endless ways of viewing it, depending on the particular eye acting on such.
Open Access
Allie Watkinson: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2021) Watkinson, Allie, artist
The artist's statement: When I was first asked, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" As a little kid, I replied that I wanted to be an artist. Over the years that answer would change. Even going into college, I started with a major in computer science. Eventually, I realized that little me was right. I wanted to create and make art. I am at my best when I'm being creative. So, I changed my degree to a B.F.A. in graphic design. I chose to concentrate on graphic design because I enjoy communicating with an audience. I especially like communicating the right emotion to an audience. That is what I usually try to start with when making a design. What mood do I want to communicate? I like how the smallest detail, whether that be color, type, illustration, etc., can change the feeling the viewer gets when looking at the piece. When I'm given an assignment from a client, I start with brainstorming a list of different paths I could go with for a design. I move on to sketching the best ideas on paper. Keeping the sketching faze on paper helps me stay loose and allows me to quickly explore every idea at different angles. I take my best sketches and bring them to my client to see what direction they want me to go in and I start bringing the sketches onto the computer. When I'm finalizing a design, I like to create a few different versions for the clients to choose from so they can feel satisfied with the end product. My ultimate goal of designing, for me, is to create effective, interesting designs that are satisfying to the client and the audience that it is meant for.