The Brief

Make an action list from your observations.  A simple way to do this is to think about the outcomes you would like to achieve in this final assignment.  This could be media skills you would like to develop further, approaches to drawing you would like to continue exploring, processes you would like to get better at, or a series of “what if?” questions that you would like to try to find answers for.

Now translate this list visually in your sketchbook using icons, drawings symbols and adding words inventively and creatively if you want to.

I would like to use the final assignment to:

• Get better at using one media in particular
• Explore composition
• Draw more simple
• Show my sketchbook to others
• Write words
• Use different surfaces
• Use line
• Become braver
• Use words

I would like to get better at using Neocolor pastels in particular.  Even though I have used them extensively before, I haven’t really explored their water-soluble properties as yet.

Exploring composition through thumbnails by considering different viewpoints, angles and sequencing is an important step in achieving the best possible illustration at the end.

Drawing more simply, especially when out on location capturing information in my sketchbook, is another goal for the final assignment.

I will make it a priority to show my sketchbook to others and get their input and opinions before progressing to the final project.

Using words as part of my ideation process is always very helpful and I will most definitely use it in my final assignment, especially the “what if?” technique.

I could explore more with different surfaces.  Printing my digital work on ‘waste’ or drawing on unconventional surfaces when exploring a brief such as kitchen towel when doing a food illustration.

At times I capture too much detail.  My goal going forward is to draw quickly using line and adding small colour swatches, notation and photos.  I can also use line weight to provide a sense of mood and atmosphere.

Become braver and sketch on location.  Whenever I go out on location I return to my studio with many ideas.  When you are out you see and hear so many things which won’t happen when isolated in your studio.

Overall, I am looking forward to the final assignment and will focus on the above action points to create the most out of the project.