Aims and Objectives in depth
1. Review and evaluate literature on graphic design and design theories
Why
Motion graphics has it's roots in graphic design. Understanding these theories is a necessity for the coming analysis stages. It also stands in for the lack of design theory based on motion graphics, being a newer medium there is not the same depth of knowledge available.
How
This is initially covered in the research proposal. The literature review section serves as an introduction to graphic design and the various types of thinking, some example guidelines developed from theory, and styles over the past hundred or so years. In the dissertation further research focuses on motion graphics and broadcast design completing an introductory journey from primary symbols to the case studies in the next section.
2. Investigate and analyse examples of motion graphics in channel idents
Why
Up to this point there is only an explanation of the theories and historical context for motion graphics. This section will ground the theoretical discussion in reality with examples showing how design is applied in a practical scenario.
How
Seven channels have been selected, two generic national ones, two aimed at youth culture - one US and the other EU, a children's channel, and two specialist focus channels. The study of these examples provides insight into various approaches to channel design. The knowledge gained in developing this section is invaluable in it's application to the final practice stage of the honours project, both in developing bespoke idents and in creating fictional channel identities within which to place the idents.
3. Conduct practice based research in the techniques used to create motion graphics.
Why
Both the preceding sections concentrate on conceptual design, from theories to practical development. The final requirement for a designer is technical knowledge. This is essential in realising a design concept, without this knowledge there would be not physical product.
How
A designer with a larger toolset will not be forced to compromise as much as the man with a smaller set. As a result, this section will explore a large range of techniques through a number of media tests. Each test will contribute a new skill and technique which may be used in the final section. Typography, stop motion, photography, particle effects, motion tracking and illustration are some of the areas covered.
4. Create and critically evaluate a broadcast ident using motion graphics and its associated techniques
Why
This is the focus point for each of the three preceding sections. The theory informs the concept, the case studies inform it's development and the media tests inform it's realisation. The results will stand as an exhibition of the combined knowledge and understanding gained from this project.
How
Three broadcast identities have been developed to allow a variation in approaches, this should also provide evidence to the versatility of the studies conclusions. With these three identities in place idents will be produced for each, driven by the three sections. These idents are the showcase pieces, the final conclusions.
Snail gate from SlurpTV on Vimeo.