Design Principles - Task 2: Visual Analysis

February 14, 2024

Design Principles - Task 2: Visual Analysis

25/2/2024 - 6/2/2024 / Week 3 - Week 5

Lim Jia Zhen / 0349294

Design Principles / Bachelor in Mass Communication (Hons) in Advertising and Brand Management

Task 2 - Visual Analysis

INSTRUCTIONS

TASK 2: VISUAL ANALYSIS

This task requires us to evaluate the artwork we've chosen for Task 1. We will delve into its aesthetic appeal, the artist's choice of medium, and the cultural or historical context that may influence its interpretation. Furthermore, a thorough examination of the artwork's symbolism and visual elements will aid in understanding its message and its potential impact on viewers. Additionally, exploring any interplay between the artwork and its surroundings or audience interaction can provide insights into its intended purpose and effectiveness in addressing the chosen United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG).

FINAL

Resilient Companies

Davide Bonazzi

23.39 x 33.11 in
27 October 2020

BVCA Journal

Bonazzi, D. (2020, October 10). BVCA: Resilient Companies. Davide Bonazzi. https://www.davidebonazzi.com/news/bvca-resilient-companies

Phase 1: Observation

This design work is in portrait format. In the bottom centre, four individuals dressed in work attire sailing a boat in a large wave like a tsunami. One figure stands tall, breaking through the wave, revealing a serene, sunlit sea with peaceful boats sailing at the right centre. There is a contrast between the size of the large wave and the size of the sunlit sea and people. The main colours include dark blue waves and sky as the background, contrasting with orange and yellow of the sunset, the light blue representing the tranquil sea, and the yellow boat and individuals dressed in various colours of work attire. Curved strokes define the tsunami wave, while wavy lines evoke movement in both the waves and the sky. Overall, it presents a dynamic composition juxtaposing chaos and tranquility.

(118 words)

Phase 2: Analysis

Contrast can be seen in colours where the colourful sunlit sea and people compared to the bland dark blue sea and sky also the size of the big wave compared to the size of the small people. Emphasis is placed on the vibrant colours of the people and the sunlit sea which is the focal point of the artwork against the bland dark blue waves and sky in the background "Figure 1.1". The golden ratio is shown through by positioning elements such as the businessmen and the curved structure and strokes of the wave according to the golden ratio template “Figure 1.2”, which is a visually pleasing composition that naturally draws the viewer's eye to key focal points. Movement is shown through the fluid visual flow through the large wave, which guides the viewer's gaze seamlessly through the artwork "Figure 1.3". Asymmetrical balance is shown by featuring one side of the composition contains a dominant element which is the colourful sunlit sea and people, and it is balanced by lesser focal points on the other side which is the different shades of dark blue sea and sky "Figure 1.4". The harmony of colours creates a cohesive visual experience, with each hue complementing the others which evoke a sense of unity within the artwork. Scale emphasises the contrast between the large wave and the small people.

(180 words)

The orange circle is the artwork’s emphasis which is placed on the vibrant colours of the people and the sunlit sea which is the focal point of the artwork against the bland dark blue waves and sky in the background.

Figure 1.1 Emphasis

The golden ratio is shown through by positioning elements such as the businessmen and the curved structure and strokes of the wave according to the golden ratio template.

Figure 1.2 The Golden Ratio

Movement is shown through the orange arrows where the fluid visual flow through the large wave, which guides the viewer's gaze seamlessly through the artwork.

Figure 1.3 Movement

Asymmetrical balance is shown by featuring one side of the composition contains a dominant element which is the colourful sunlit sea and people, and it is balanced by lesser focal points on the other side which is the different shades of dark blue sea and sky.

Figure 1.4 Asymmetrical Balance

Phase 3: Interpretation

Image A: "American Gas: Addressing

Environmental Issues"

Bonazzi, D. (2019, May 15). American gas: Addressing environmental issues. Davide Bonazzi. https://www.davidebonazzi.com/news/american-gas-addressing-environmental-issues

Image B: "Learning America"

Bonazzi, D. (2022, April 28). Mariner Books/Harper Collins: Learning America. Davide Bonazzi. https://www.davidebonazzi.com/news/mariner-booksharper-collins-learning-america

Davide Bonazzi created this design for the cover illustration of the BVCA Journal focusing on resilient businesses and their inspiring narratives of innovation, evolution, and overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic which aligns with UNSDG 9. His art style in this design shows a blend of digital illustration and conceptual art, he is known for his use of vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and visual metaphors to convey complex ideas and themes. His illustrations often incorporate elements of surrealism and storytelling which gives a mixture of anxiety and some primal fear of the unknown (Jushutch, 2019). These captivating narratives invite viewers to explore deeper layers of meaning. This art style is also evident in both of his other artworks (Image A & B).

(105 words)

References

Jushutch. (2019, March 6). The appeal of Visual surrealism. arts, ink. https://artsatmichigan.umich.edu/ink/2019/03/06/the-appeal-of-visual-surrealism/

FEEDBACK:

Week 4: Everything looks good but remember to add further readings. It's best to use Adobe Illustrator for Task 3 because Davide Bonazzi's artwork shoes a blend of digital illustration.

Week 5: Start working on Task 3 and the theme must be related to UNSDG 9 and incorporate Davide Bonazzi's art style in your artwork.

REFLECTION:

Documenting the findings required careful attention to detail to ensure all relevant points were captured accurately and an understanding of the nuances of Bonazzi's artistic style.. Researching the background of the artist and the artwork itself provided valuable insights into the intention behind its creation. I realise what truly makes Bonazzi's art style incredible is its versatility and adaptability. He is equally adept at creating whimsical illustrations filled with charm and humor as he is at crafting poignant, thought-provoking pieces that tackle serious themes. This versatility allows him to explore a wide range of subjects and concepts, from the fantastical realms of imagination to the harsh realities of the modern world. It really inspires me to work more towards refining my design skills, exploring new techniques, and pushing the boundaries of my creativity.