This course will explore the most essential elements in the development of a designer and their ability to communicate through numerous mediums. Exercises and projects are specifically tailored to develop the student's critical eye. Color and image-text integration are developed along with a greater understanding of form, scale, proportion, rhythm, and pace. This course teaches core design competencies, which include three major topics: color theory, image-text integration (which includes single page design, typographic exercises and working with images), and design processes and decision-making.

More than half of the projects do not use the computer, but rather use traditional art media and collage. The computer is introduced later in the semester, because the computer is a tool, not an end, and on overemphasis on the computer in early design training limits the student's work to what the computer (plus software) can do. However, there are some basic computer competencies that are expected by the end of the semester. They are: the ability to manipulate photos digitally, and the ability to produce digital page layouts. (Note: How to use specific software applications is not taught during class time.)

Co-requisite: FA 203 Digital Tools.