Information Design/ Project 01

on
21.02.2024 - 27.02.2024 (Week 03 - Week 04)
LIEW XIAO HUI / 0353121
BACHELOR OF DESIGN (HONOURS) IN CREATIVE MEDIA / INFORMATION DESIGN
Project 01: Instructable Infographics Poster

JUMPLINK
Instructions
Project 01: Instructable Infographics Poster
Feedback
Reflections

INSTRUCTIONS

Project 01: Instructable Infographics Poster
We have been assigned the task of creating an infographic poster based on a recipe selected from Pasta Grannies on YouTube. Our assignment involves thoroughly studying the chosen video, breaking down and organizing the preparation and cooking process into a clear and instructive poster.

Progress
Initially, I viewed the Pasta Grannies video on YouTube using the link provided by Mr. Shamsul. Afterward, I chose Alba's recipe for tagliatelle al ragu from Pasta Grannies, attracted by the appealing cover photo and the delicious appearance of the pasta. Subsequently, I thoroughly studied the video to understand the ingredients and steps demonstrated by the grannies.
Pasta Grannies share Alba's recipe for tagliatelle al ragu


Figure 1.1, 1.2 Pasta Grannies. (credits: YouTube)

Following that, I utilized my sketchbook to document the ingredients and the steps involved in making tagliatelle al ragu.


Figure 1.3, 1.4 Steps.

Then, I transformed the words into more comprehensive sentences to enhance the viewer's understanding when they refer to the poster I created.


Figure 1.4, 1.5 Rephrase.

Afterward, I began searching for visual references on Pinterest. Since this is my first attempt at creating an instructive infographic, visual references are crucial for me to gather ideas and direction to proceed.



Figure 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9 Visual references. (credits: Pinterest)

Once I felt confident in my direction and ideas, I started sketching out the concepts I had in mind. I aimed to design four different layouts, each with its own unique style, providing ample options to explore further after receiving feedback from Mr. Shamsul.

Figure 2.1 Sketches 01, 02.

Figure 2.2 Sketches 03, 04. 

I presented my sketches to Mr. Shamsul during the practical class in week 3. He recommended that I can further explore the second sketch, noting its simplicity and straightforwardness. Additionally, Mr. Shamsul also provided a sketch as guidance for further exploration.

Figure 2.3 Mr. Shamsul's sketch. 

I chose to further develop my sketch 02. Initially, I plan to make the curved line guiding the viewer's eye from top to bottom as resembling a strand of tagliatelle. However, upon reconsideration, I realized this concept lacked logic. Therefore, I decided to alter it to represent rising steam, symbolizing the hot and enticing aroma of freshly cooked tagliatelle al ragu. Additionally, I opted to relocate the ingredient section to the top, positioned below the main title. The visual depiction of tagliatelle al ragu was shifted from the left corner to the bottom center. This arrangement ensures that the poster is viewed sequentially from top to bottom, starting with the pasta name, followed by the ingredients, steps, and concluding with the visual representation of tagliatelle al ragu.

Figure 2.4 Further development.

Digitalize
I opted for a portrait poster size of 1240px×1750px, which I believed suited my layout design best. I began by utilizing Adobe Illustrator to draw out the visual representation of tagliatelle al ragu. To assist in drawing accurate angles, as I'm not proficient in drawing, I referenced real-life photographs of spaghetti from Pinterest. Initially, I sketched the plate for the tagliatelle based on these photographs.

Figure 3.1 Progress screenshot.

Then, I proceeded to draw the tagliatelle itself, drawing inspiration not only from real-life images but also from existing illustrations of tagliatelle. Utilizing the pen tool and curvature tool, I created my own illustration, refining the rough form of the tagliatelle to my desired shape and adding details such as the ragu sauce, meats, and vegetables. Shadows were then added for depth, refining the overall appearance. 



Figure 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5 Progress screenshot.

Moving on, I created a visual of a fork with tagliatelle, intending to place it at the top of the poster for increased interactivity. 

Figure 3.6 Progress screenshot.

For the typography, I searched online for a font that was both curvy and readable, ultimately selecting Kurale. I then typed all the previously rephrased steps into Adobe Illustrator before creating the form of rising steam to fit alongside the steps. 
Kurale - Google font


Figure 3.7, 3.8 Progress screenshot.

Following that, I crafted the shape of rising steam to fit all the steps.

Figure 3.9 Progress screenshot.

Finally, I rearranged all the text, elements, and illustrations, considering various visual references to determine a color scheme that complemented the overall style of the poster.


Figure 3.10, 3.11 Progress screenshot.

Outcome 01
During the week 4 tutorial class, Mr. Shamsul reviewed my outcome 01 and advised me to incorporate more graphics into the poster. He emphasized that relying solely on text detracts from its function as an infographic. Additionally, he suggested changing the background color and possibly adding texture to avoid a plain appearance. While he noted that the overall layout and design were satisfactory, he recommended these adjustments for enhancement.

Figure 4.1 Outcome 01. 

Following Mr. Shamsul's advice, I began by creating the necessary graphics for the ingredients and steps. I referred to real-life pictures and existing illustrations to develop my own graphics, occasionally tracing from images as needed.


Figure 5.1 - 5.9 Progress screenshot.

Once all the graphics were completed, I integrated them into the poster layout. To address potential space constraints and maintain balance, I reduced the font size of the text. I prioritized readability by slightly enlarging the font size for the steps compared to the ingredients. Furthermore, I adjusted the opacity of the rising steam to reduce visual clutter.


Figure 5.10, 5.11 Progress screenshot.

In search of a suitable background texture, I explored options on Freepik. Despite experimenting with textured and recycled paper, I found that they clashed with the desired style, increased the difficulty of reading and added unnecessary complexity. Ultimately, I selected a vintage crumpled paper textured background with subtle nuances, aligning well with the poster's overall aesthetic. The darker hue of the textured background offers the added benefit of enhancing the contrast between the graphics and text, thereby improving readability for viewers.

Figure 5.12 Progress screenshot.

Final Project 01: Instructable Infographics Poster

Figure 6.1 Final instructable infographics poster.

FEEDBACK
Week 03
Mr. Shamsul recommended that I can continue exploring sketch 02 due to its simplicity, clarity, and straightforwardness. He pointed out that the other sketches were more complex, potentially causing difficulty for viewers to understand, which goes against the requirement for an instructable infographic poster. He advised me to maintain a clear and straightforward overall layout. Additionally, he suggested placing the illustration of tagliatelle al ragu in the bottom center as a background. He also mentioned the possibility of separating the steps and ingredients into two sides, left and right.
Week 04
He suggested adding more graphics to the poster instead of relying solely on text, as this would prevent it from being considered an infographic. Additionally, he recommended changing the background color and possibly incorporating texture, as the current appearance seemed too plain. Lowering the opacity of the rising steam would allow for more space for the graphics. He found the overall layout and design satisfactory, requiring no further refinement.

REFLECTIONS
This project provided me with an opportunity to improve my skills in creating instructive and process infographics. Such infographics require clarity and comprehensibility to guide viewers effectively through each step. While aesthetics hold importance, I've come to realize that prioritizing information delivery is paramount. Achieving a balance between simplicity and visual appeal in layout design is crucial for viewer engagement.
I've also recognized areas for improvement in my illustration abilities. I need to spend more time studying various illustrations, referencing real-life photographs, and practicing with Adobe Illustrator. Additionally, I've noticed that I'm more likely to use visually-driven layouts for information presentation. However, I acknowledge that this approach may pose readability challenges for some viewers. Creating designs that are able to convey information without necessitating viewer inquiries or explanations from my end is the main goal.

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