Origination - Week 06

Origination Week 6

In the first part of this lesson we all discussed the exhibition, and Peter emphasized to the group that we all need to get on track with what we are responsible for and have something to deliver in week 7. Josie, Rachel and I agreed that we would have a final heading design by end of week 7 - early week 8. Group had discussion on the exhibition.

Reading quiz:

1. Describe the relationships between Complexity and Simplicity? Complexity allows us to recognise simplicity when we see it. For example, if you are given a crazy complex puzzle to complete, then a simple puzzle, you would only recognise that the simple puzzle was ‘simple’, by comparing it to the more complex one.

2.  What analogy does Maeda use to demonstrate this relationship? "Simplicity and complexity need each other. The more complexity there is in the market, the more that something simpler stands out". An example he used is the ipod in comparison to competitors in the market.

3. In what context does Maeda discuss rhythm/beat in relation to the fifth law? Maeda uses rhythm and beat to describe the need for complexity and simplicity. As Warrick explained to me, if you had a song that had no beat or rhythm, it would be quite boring because of its extreme simplicity, however, if you listened to a song that was too complex and had too much going on, it would not be enjoyable to listen too. This analogy emphasizes the law that there must be simplicity and complexity to make anything effective. If something is too simple it can be boring, if something is too complex people can be bored or too challenged. Elements of both provide good balance. We can adapt this analogy to the planning, preparation, and presentation of our work at the Exhibition. We need to present our work in an interesting enough way, but ensure that there is no over clutter that makes the overall feel and vibe of the exhibition seem to complex. This same principle should be applied to the design of our leaflets and posters. 

4.  Acknowledging contrast allows us to identify qualities that we desire.

The following is a clip of Alexander Mcquinn’s  Spring 2010 runway show. As you will see, his designs are so complect and detailed, but the backdrop/stage is a simple runway with a massive screen in the background.  The lighting I simple which allows the audience to completely focus on the designs. There is nothing else going on that distracts from the models.

Fashion show- Complex extravagant designs, simple backdrop and setting.

Clip sourced from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfkEVJonET8

Dress - simple cut but detailed graphic art:

Image sourced from: http://ficdn.fashionindie.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Picture-311.png

Thinking Game - Lateral thinking:

The 'Six Thinking Hats' is tool that utilizes both group and individual thinking. It forces groups and individuals to focus their attention to the critical elements to factor when when making decisions. 

The following information and images were sourced from: http://www.debonothinkingsystems.com/tools/6hats.htm

The Six Thinking Hats (or modes)

The White Hat

The White Hat calls for information known or needed.

The Red Hat

The Red Hat signifies feelings, hunches and intuition.

The Black Hat

The Black Hat is judgment -- the devil's advocate or why something may not work.

The Yellow Hat

The Yellow Hat symbolizes brightness and optimism.

The Green Hat

The Green Hat focuses on creativity: the possibilities, alternatives and new ideas.

The Blue Hat

The Blue Hat is used to manage the thinking process.

Design Group:

The Process- The Blue Hat Would relate to the planning of the design. Organising our thoughts about what we want to achieve. What we need to think about. For example, timelines, equipment, what is needed etc.

The Facts - The White  hat would relate to the identifying what we know about the design,  for example, the brief specifications. It would also relate to what we don't know (the end result). This is where we would all need to use objective thinking. 

The Black hat would be used to identify weaknesses, dangers, risks. For example, a risk of incorporating an Aboriginal landmark into the heading design could make the art exhibition seem like it is an aboriginal art exhibition rather than a design exhibition. This could either attract or put off perspective guests. 

The Green hat represents Creative Thinking. We would use this hat to brainstorm design concepts and challenge our thinking. What works, what doesn't, what can be changed, what can be refined. This hat is used to solve black hat problems. For example, coming up with a design that appeals to all demographics. 

The Yellow Hat is used to support an Idea. What are the positives and benefits. We will use this hat to address what works with a design concept. Reasons should be given as to why an idea works. 

The Red hat will be utilized to assist the group with explaining our emotions. How we feel about a design idea right now. This is also where we address gut feelings, hunches. For example, "I like the design idea however I don't feel a 80 year old will understand the message".