PROJECT 1 - SELF PORTRAIT

 17.01.2023 - 03.02.2023 (Week 2 - Week 4) 

Vishmitha Krisna Kumar (0360488) 

Design Principles / Bachelors of Fashion Design Technology.

PROJECT 1: SELF-POTRAIT 

RECAP : 

During Week 1 till Week 2, we were able to complete our first EXERCISE assignment while learning the basics of the many design principles. We were able to make use of the principle in our designs to come up with interesting and creative ideas during that period of time. After creating 2 designs while incorporating a design principle for each design, we were able to advance in our skills and learn from our peers. During Week 2 we were also briefed of the commencement of our first project which is PROJECT 1. 

TASK : 

In this project, we are required to create a portrait of yourself by applying the various principles that you had learnt through these weeks. 

SELF-POTRAIT 

1.1 Visual References 

Figure 1.1.1

Sample of portraits that I found online. 

Figure 1.1.2

'Reflection' was the initial concept that I was going for but I couldn't come up with suitable designs 

( can be seen in the idea exploration figure 1.2.2 ) 

Figure 1.1.3

Started to look for a new concept which had a similar feel to my surroundings. (room) 

Figure 1.1.4

Similar concept to figure 1.1.3. 

Figure 1.1.5

The design above incorporates the individual's interests and I found it interesting the way that it was put together. 

FINAL DESIGN VISUAL REFERENCES  

Figure 1.1.6

I stumbled upon this scene while I was watching the anime 'Bluelock' and decided to apply the concept to my design. The chain is holding the person down from achieving their dreams. They eventually figure out their weaknesses and slowly free themselves. 

Figure 1.1.7

For my design, I wanted to go for a dark theme and decided to use this picture for inspiration. 

1.2 Idea Exploration 

Figure 1.2.1

The design above shows a simple idea of what I had initially thought a self-portrait should be like. 

Figure 1.2.2

This design shows a reflection of an individual with similar mindset but portrayed differently (as in a positive mindset). I was still figuring out what kind of self-portrait I wanted to go for.  

Figure 1.2.3 

This sketch shows the closest to what I had initially wanted to portray which was purity and innocence. The room is like a 'safe space'. 

Figure 1.2.4

I had tried to modify the sketch multiple times but had no inspiration to continue with this sketch. So, I decided to start fresh. 

FINAL DESIGN IDEA EXPLORATION 

Figure 1.2.5 

I decided to go with a night theme because it seemed to suit my design idea. So, I drew a simple picture of the night sky with the moon.

Figure 1.2.6 

I then added a figure representing an individual and added tree barks to fill in the sides and give it a night feel. 

Figure 1.2.7 

The roots of the tree that surrounds me represent the challenges that I am going through as an individual. It's gripping me tight as it is something that I cannot overcome easily.  

Figure 1.2.8

The tree branches represent my future self watching over my past self and making sure I get stronger even if it takes a long time. 

Figure 1.2.9 

The addition of colors symbolizes growth in a positive way and that I am still seeing the positive side of things. 

 

1.3 Feedback 

                     

                            

Figure 1.2.3 

The design needs to have a cozier feel to it as it can be viewed as the individual is confined in the room and not 'safe'. I was advised to use a more spacious room that gives off a homely feel to it. 

Figure 1.2.8 

I was advised to use more colors. Besides that, the branches (future self) looked to aggressive so Ms. Yip Jinchi advised me to use a calmer expression. Lastly, I was also advised to center the moon to make the design look more balanced.  

1.4 Final Design 

DESIGN PRINCIPLES APPLIED : 

- GESTALT THEORY ( PRINCIPLE OF FIGURE/GROUND ) 

- EMPHASIS 

- HARMONY AND UNITY

Figure 1.4.1 

This design expresses my feelings and shows that you can still look at the bright side even when you are facing difficulties. I have had always felt insecure and always been a people pleaser hence it never really allowed me to grow as a person. It was always holding me down hence, the roots surrounding the body in the design. The message that I would like to convey through this design is that you should never give up just because it is taking a long time to heal and trust the process. 

1.5 Reflection 

In this project I was able to explore digital art. I decided to take this opportunity and use digital art to make my design for the first time. I had faced many challenges as to which app that could best portray my design. Besides that, the tools were very new to me, and I found it very interesting as it helped me come up with a variety of ideas for my design in a short amount of time as I wasn't doing it manually. This has made my design process more efficient. Other than that, I had also learnt to incorporate many design principles in just one design to make it look more artistic and appealing. By using these design principles, I was able to convey my message through my design clearer and express my feelings through my design. In conclusion, I am really grateful to have been able to do this project as it has opened up my mind on many different design tactics that I saw from my peers, and I was able to design a portrait that represents myself as an individual.