The Modern Greats project is the most important project of the semester. This project requires us to incorporate all of the good graphic design concepts that we are learning thus far. Some of these concepts include hierarchy, grid, color, and typesetting. For this project we have to include all of the information that you see on each layout, and the only typeface we can use is Univers. We are also only allowed to use one color (besides black) on the layouts (the American Airlines logo is the only exception). These layouts end up looking sort of like a magazine article, or even a corporate letter. Overall, the project is very fun and rewarding.
Saul Bass
Paul Rand
Massimo Vignelli
I want to take a moment to discuss some of the graphic design concepts included in these layouts. First, the way that the text and logos are arranged causes the eye to travel around the layout in a certain way to gather all of the information. Second, I am experimenting with the direction that the text takes. You will see some paragraphs that are left-justified mixed with those that are right-justified. Also, my professor is big on pieces that are asymmetrical to add the most interest to the eye. Finally, you want to use all of the space you have to your advantage. That may mean experimenting with size, margins, and spacing, which provides even more visual appeal. You can read about more graphic design concepts from 99 Designs.
I hope you are enjoying the various iterations that I am creating for this project. Be sure to share your critiques with me, as well as which layouts are your favorite/least favorite in the comments! I shall return with more of my college projects. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.