Evaluation- AD203 Art & Design Method 2
Before starting the module I conducted some prior research into some initial ideas for my theme. I visited a few places such as York and Newcastle, where I collected some strong images, which helped determine my theme of structure. I visited these places because of a quote I found by Chanel ‘Fashion is architecture; it is a matter of proportion’. This really inspired the whole idea for my theme and gave me an initial focus point from which to start. I found that using primary resources in the early stages of development benefited me as it gave me lots of ideas to work from.
When I began the module the initial concepts I looked at after returning from half term were the vintage garments which were brought in. This really got me thinking about the shape and the silhouette of my garment which developed my theme of structure. I decided I wanted to create a strong overall shape for the garment which inspired me to think about the use of materials such as metal.
I then began doing some secondary research to gain the background information that I needed. It helped me to acquire the knowledge that was necessary to complete this project. I found a lot of the secondary research very useful in regard to developing my initial ideas. In particular the information I gathered about the pioneer of the little black dress was very beneficial for understanding where it originated from and how it progressed over the years. The information I sourced about haute couture, using web pages, magazines and books, was very valuable in the development of my design. I also researched bridges and structures to develop my design ideas. This allowed me to really explore my theme of structure and think alternatively as to how architecture can relate to design. My findings both progressed my sketch book work and my understanding of the research side of this module.
When creating my initial designs I created a selection of thumbnails which started off as structural based designs. I then realised I needed to create some kind of contrasting idea to compliment this strong theme. I began researching and developing a few different ideas. After referring back to my initial images, I considered using water as a contrasting theme to structure. This led me to my final theme of ‘Natural elements vs. manmade construction’.
During the process of sampling, my final design idea began to emerge. I began by working on the metal, trialling various metals to create the structural element of my design. After considering several materials for the structural segment of my design, I found a suitable metal which was both light and aesthetically pleasing making it perfect for my garment. I decided I was going to paint the structure a gloss black to give my desired finish. I then began working, draping fabric on the mannequin, to create the flowing look that I was trying to achieve. I experimented with the gathering of elastic and different necklines to try and create the look I desired.
Overall I think during this process I have learnt a lot about both the history of the little black dress and how to develop a project. I am pleased that my little black dress creates the style and look I desired. Throughout this project I felt that sampling was the most beneficial process as it gave me clear and realistic ideas of what was possible. From this I have created a strong and individual design in-keeping with the conventions of a little black dress.
Evaluation of AD202-
Throughout the process of AD202 I have progressed my skills and knowledge of illustrator as well as my research ability. I think combining the two together greatly assisted in the creation and development of my overall designs.
I began the process with a basic knowledge of illustrator. When starting the CAD module we had a few refresher sessions which really benefited me as it allowed me to practice on the skills I gained last year as well as learning some new shortcuts and techniques. After the initial practice sessions I began working on my final designs. I did a lot of development work to try and experiment and create the best designs possible. I tried many different shapes, cuts and styles as well as experimented with colour. Although I decided to not have colour on my designs I think if I was to do the module again I would possibly add small sections of colour to make the design more exciting, although I think it does works well in black and white as it shows the detail which was the overall outcome I wanted to achieve.
Through the research side of this module, I feel I have learned to use my research in the development of my CAD spec drawings which has benefited my designs and my file of work. Analysing and annotating numerous different illustrations really helped me develop my design illustrations. It has also allowed me to start looking at how illustrator is used within the fashion industry which has enabled me to predict the development of digital applications.
I have really benefited from this CAD module. I now feel very comfortable using illustrator and think it will be useful for me in my future to have the skills that I have gained. I feel comfortable using the necessary tools and am able to use them appropriately. Overall I feel I have progressed and developed throughout this module and have achieved the outcomes that were set.
Evaluation of AD206-
Throughout the process of this module, I feel I’ve developed and improved my style, vision and knowledge. I found this project to be very interesting, and I feel it presented a fantastic opportunity to work with other students. It was different to any module I have done before and I think it has been very beneficial to learn about negotiating with other types of design students, which has overall given me an insight into what it will be like working with others within the industry. During the course of the module I have gained valuable skills which I feel will allow me to progress in the final year of my degree.
I began this project with a clear idea of how I wanted to compose my photos. I primarily wanted to embody the contrasting theme of natural elements vs. man-made construction. When I began the research I wanted to consider historical photographers as well as contemporary photographers. I began by researching into numerous styles of photography. I was particularly interested in the simplistic style of F.C. Gundlach, I admire his ability to create depth within his images, especially given his minimalist approach to photography. I considered the idea of black and white editing; I feel this is appropriate for the project given the obvious link to Coco Chanel, whose primary design period (and the conception of the little black dress itself) dated far before the advent of colour photography – however, my use of black and white editing or otherwise depended heavily on the model available to me, and would have to be considered further into the process. I then began to think about my shoot, and how best to represent my theme. As I was looking to highlight the contrast between the free movement of the dress (representing natural elements) and the rigidity of the metal skirt (representing man made elements) I was looking to shoot in a natural location, and use the sharp silhouette of the metal skirt to achieve this contrast not only in the dress, but in the image as a whole. I considered various locations, but settled on Tynemouth beach; given the sea's inherent nature to remain ultimately unchangeable by man I felt that this was appropriate to my theme. This location proved challenging to shoot, however it provided me with an opportunity to push the boundaries of my work so far, which is something I wish to achieve throughout my degree and further career.
When I was presented with my shots I had a brief look through them and created my contact sheets. I then began annotating my contact sheets; I started by writing a brief analysis next to them and marking them out of ten based on how well they matched my initial intentions for the project, as a way to help me narrow down and evaluate the photos. Using this method, I ultimately decided on eight photos which I think best represented my overall theme. I think these images showcased my dress well, and the variation between the shots chosen would allow me wider range in the next part of my process; experimenting with various stylisations and effects.
During to my earlier research I had been drawn to the idea of black and white stylisation, though given further reflection on the completed photographs I decided that the contrast between my model's hair colour and the background created an interesting depth; with this in mind I kept the black and white concept aside for comparison and began using different techniques on Photoshop to alter various aspects of my images. I started all of my editing by using the ‘spot healing’ tool to clear any blemishes. I then experimented with many different effects particularly focusing on brightness, contrast and vibrancy in an effort to create more contrast between the competing elements of the images. This was a relatively long and arduous process, and perfecting the light and colour balance to my standards in each image was difficult, however I feel that I was able to fully realise my initial intention for my photographs and that the process itself has vastly improved my skills with the Photoshop utility.
Once I was satisfied with my eight chosen photographs I began to consider which shots worked well together. I selected four designs which I feel show my dress in various ways, thereby giving the most comprehensive selection for the look book. I decided on one close up shot, two full length shots and one shot which included a silhouette, an important aspect of my design. I then decided to continue developing these shots through Photoshop to further close in on the way I wished to exhibit my dress. I eventually found an editing process which I feel worked well with each image; the images look relatively natural overall, but the colours and light balance have clearly been altered to give more dramatic impact to the key features of each image. I feel that having a consistent method for editing a collection of images such as this lends a sense of continuity and professionalism to the look book as a whole.
Throughout the process of the module I feel I have made several conscious decisions to progress my project, as well as to hone my skills and abilities in several areas integral to my future personal and professional development. I think I have learned a lot about negotiation with colleagues, effectively organising integral members of a shoot such as the photographer and model, and processing raw images into aesthetically viable candidates for a look book. Overall I think it has been a very successful project and I am happy with the outcome. If I was to repeat this project I would try a variation of location and studio shots to create more diversity within the shots, consider multiple photographers and models to assess who would be most suited to my design, and attempt to further push the boundaries of my abilities.
AD101 Evaluation-
After completing the PPD module it has allowed me to really understand how important and helpful it is to create a diary style development of work. It has helped me develop by being able to look back on what can be improved to know for next time. Using the SMART targets has allowed me to become more organised with my work and enabled me to use my time effectively. I have also developed further on last year by completing weekly SWOT analysis which has helped my completely consider everything that I’ve done which I think it very important in my development into further education as well as future employment. Evaluating everything I do has also helped me develop as a fashion student because it is constantly showing me ways to improve.
