TASK 2: SELF-PORTRAIT

04.10.2023 - 01.11.2023 | Week 5 - Week 10

Zoë Lena-maria Nelson | 0364991 | Rotterdam University Of Applied Science

Design of Principles | Task 2: Self-portrait

RECAP BRIEFING 1

Introduction to Module

Submission Assignment:

1. Project 1 - Self-portrait blog link,

2. JPEG image of the final design (Labelled as <Your
Name_Self-Portrait_Title of Your Finale Design>)

3. PDF of Self-Portrait blog

Learning Goals: 

1. To practice the knowledge of design principles.

2. To express a message through a work of design.

3. To identify suitable materials and compositions for visual communication.

Main Goal:

The goal of this assignment is for students to create a self-portrait that applies design principles and allows for creative exploration. The classroom serves as a laboratory for interaction, experimentation, and critique. Students are encouraged to examine the work of other designers and artists to foster critical and historical thinking about art and design.

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THE DESIGN PROCESS 2

2.1.) Mind Map

Create a mind map that represents the different aspects of your personality, interests, and experiences. I did that by using Miro, and this was the start.

Figure 2.1.

I also remembered I had a project for school to ask my dearest friends what they think of me, and this is their answer;

"Zoë is a lovely, fun friend. Even though we don't see each other as often as we would like. I can always count on her. If we see each other after a while, it feels like only a few days. Zoë is a caregiver and someone you can always count on. She will support you through thick and thin and always be honest, even though that's not always the nicest answer."

My self-portrait captures my essence through qualities such as being caring, reliable, and honest. I use vibrant colors and imagery to reflect my fun-loving nature and passions, and include significant life experiences that have helped shape me. A quote from a dear friend highlights my trustworthiness and supportive nature, emphasizing the importance of friendship and connection. Ultimately, my self-portrait represents my unique blend of traits and experiences, inviting viewers to glimpse into my self-identity.

2.2.) Visual references 

For official references. I found a lot of inspiration on Pinterest and wanted to implement the design principal element of contrast. Because I really like it.

Figure 2.2.1

Figure 2.2.2.

A 2.3.) Idea Exploration

A) Shattered Reflection.

Using a handheld mirror with shattered glass to see one's body or face produces a reflection that can inspire self-reflection and growth or different points of views, as a broken image of yourself.

B) Mask Off.

I wear a mask to conceal my identity. Behind the mask is my face adorned with colorful flowers to represent my drill, bubbly self, that I've been hiding from the rest of the world.

C) Destortion.

The idea is to create a visual representation of my 'true self' by portraying a destroyed part of my face, specifically the eyes, which will be left untouched and colored. This will symbolise my innermost self and how I see myself despite any physical imperfections.

D) Surreal Hair Glow.

In my self-portrait, I want to feature a surreal, glowing halo inspired by the ethereal qualities of my hair. This element represents my creativity and appreciation for my unique hair. By adding a dreamlike quality, I aim to convey that our individual characteristics, like my hair, have a mystical allure that deserves admiration. The halo emphasizes the beauty of my hair, inviting viewers to appreciate the intricate details that contribute to my self-identity.

E) A Piece of Me.

I plan to create a self-portrait using a black-and-white photograph of myself as the base. I'll overlay a piece of paper partially covering my face, transformed into vibrant colors to contrast the monochromatic backdrop. This symbolizes the complexity of my personality - black and white for depth, and surreal colors for passion. The composition reflects my multifaceted identity, showcasing the intricacies beneath the surface of a seemingly simple exterior.

B 2.3.) Sketches final project.

"A Piece of Me" is a self-portrait, a black and white photograph of me, my exterior persona, with a vibrant, colourful paper overlay or underlaying, representing the complexity of my inner world. This creative expression symbolizes the contrast between my perceived exterior and the rich emotional depth within, showcasing my multifaceted identity and the intricacies beneath my seemingly simple surface.

Figure 2.3.1.

Figure 2.3.2.

Figure 2.3.3.

2.3) Sketches final project.

Figure 2.3.4.

                                                                            Figure 2.3.5.
2.4) Final Design: A Piece of Me

"A Piece of Me" is an introspective self-portrait that delves into the intricate layers of the human soul. Using a black-and-white photograph of the artist as the foundation, the artwork introduces a captivating twist by overlaying a vividly coloured piece of paper. This contrast between monochrome and vibrant hues is a visual metaphor for the dichotomy of the artist's persona.

The black-and-white exterior portrays the depth and intricacy of their character, while the surreal colours peeking through represent the passionate and multifaceted nature hidden beneath the surface. "A Piece of Me" invites viewers to contemplate the profound complexity of the human spirit and encourages them to look beyond the initial facade to discover the rich tapestry of emotions and experiences that lie within us all.

Figure 2.4.1.  Final Design for Self-Portrait (A Piece of Me)

2.5) Feedback Lecture

After creating a few different sketches, the lecture gave feedback on a few aspects. The first comment was about the lack of colour. Miss wanted to see more of what was going on in my mind or the surrounding colours in the colourful image of me.

The second comment was about the type of texture I should use to tell my thoughts and how it will look like. Therefore, I came up with the idea of implementing the design principle of movement. This I will do by creating and studying ways to give the idea of brain waves. 

After this feedback, I implemented the ideas mostly in Figure 2.3.5.

2.6) Reflection

The "A Piece of Me" self-portrait project is a creative exploration of design principles and self-expression. It began with a mind map, which provided a foundation for the artist's authentic representation. Drawing inspiration from visual references, "A Piece of Me" was born. This concept used a black-and-white photograph overlaid with vibrant, contrasting colours to symbolize the artist's multifaceted identity - depth in monochrome and passion in vivid hues. The final design adeptly adhered to design principles, inviting viewers to ponder the complexity of the human spirit concealed beneath a seemingly simple exterior. The addition of colour and texture, guided by feedback and the principle of movement, enriched the project, making it a compelling visual narrative of self-identity and artistic creativity.