class description & objectives

This class is involves the dissection of letterforms. You will be working with your hands, as well as with today’s practical computer applications. We will be studying type anatomy, type classifications, history, establish type hierarchies, and use programs to control, set, manage, and edit type: Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Fontographer, and Extensis Suitcase.

I want you to be challenged and inspired, make quality work, and have fun. You will be pushed to document each step of your process in order to create strong concepts and engage in intelligent dialogue about your work.

Because we are in the digital age, you must be willing to embrace the technology around you and spend much time learning the software programs, printing and hardware function, and Macintosh environment. You have a vast amount of information available to you: use it! In order for you to be self-sufficient, you need to be proactive. Engage with your classmates. Get a manual. Use the help menu. Find tutorials online. Trial and error. You put in the time.