Reflection on Brief

I didn't feel that the brief was explained that well in the lecture itself, however, once I read it through in my own time it became quite clear. The timescale allowed to work in our groups to produce an idea in response to the brief seemed short. Stressfully short. But the stress, I hope, will increase our capability to get it done on time.

I have no initial ideas as of yet. However, I am excited to display the work. I have the idea that I either want to create an interactive design for the corridor of Manchester or voice a strong opinion which will cause conflict (possibly) or at least a change of perception for some.

Initial Briefing

Exciting stuff! A new project!

I have to admit, I have been quite nervous throughout the year waiting for this project. Simply due to the phrase 'group work'. However, intrigued at the same time, as Unit X on our timetable is one huge grey box - with no idea what to expect. 

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The tutors make a real effort to enthuse their students. Creating experimental graphics to entice us before we've even taken our seats in the lecture theatre. The sessions are full of little surprises and interesting ideas. A very unique way of presentation.

I found it fascinating that when asked to hold up a shape that we felt represented us - circle or square - the majority of students held up a 'circle' and the majority of staff held up a 'square'. I feel that students resemble squares to be people who are not very outgoing, coach-potatoes and possibly 'nerdy', therefore, they felt they had to go with circle which may say that they are an all round 'together-ness' person. However, having read the back of each shape thoroughly, there is a lot more to it than that. Being a square isn't all that bad after all, they seem more mature and set in their ways. Just depends on your personality.

"The Circle is a symbol of harmony. Those who choose this shape are interested in good interpersonal relations. The highest value for the circle is people and their well being. This is the most benevolent of the five figures. The Circle is the glue that holds the team or the family together. They stabilize the group and have a high capacity for sympathy and empathy. Circles feel the pain and joy of others as their own. They are right-brain thinkers, not logical but creative and more emotionally charged. The processing of information in such people is not consistent and resembles a mosaic pattern. The main feature of their style of thinking is a focus on the subjective aspects of the problem."

I am a circle. And proud.

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Having completed small activities and been introduced to the new timetable, we were then informed on the tutors inspirations and work from other years. This was an even bigger boost of positivity for me to the new project. It also made the brief a lot clearer. I enjoy reading and re-reading through the handouts and timetables that the tutors provide. They are easy to read and their layouts always leave me with a burst of inspiration.

Brief

"This is a live project and there is a real opportunity for your work to get noticed and realised in a public space. Perhaps more importantly there is a bigger opportunity to test your ideas and attitudes about the city as a place in which to live, play and work."

DEVELOP CREATIVE IDEAS FOR HOARDINGS TO SURROUND BRUNTWOOD'S NEW DEVELOPMENT ON OXFORD ROAD