Graphic designers create icons, images, and objects that communicate messages. In this class, students will use Adobe Illustrator to learn and generate vector art, a form of computer graphics based on geometric shapes. (It sounds scarier than it actually is.) We will explore the principles of design such as line, shape, color, layer, and typography through a series of real-world design exercises. You will draw and die-cut personalized logos, screenprint bold graphics onto t-shirts, illustrate and print inviting campus event posters, create websites that tell stories, and build visually cohesive product packaging. This class is designed to give art students of all disciplines the digital tools to make their work flexible, scalable, and reproducible. Through this course, students will become versatile artists, thoughtful problem solvers, and good designers.

Optional Second Elective as Pass/Fail: The typical course load is six classes. In the 8-9 division, students may opt to take a second elective (in visual arts, performing arts, or computer science) in lieu of a study hall. This is a good option for students who are exceptionally organized and tend to manage their time well; it is not a good option for students with busy extracurricular schedules or who struggle with time management and organization. The seventh class does not count as a graduation requirement. It will not appear on students’ transcripts, and it must be taken as Pass/Fail.