Project 1

ART 120
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Icon Set Design

​Project Details

Design a set of 5 icons. Think outside the box - Do not create the standard icon you see everyday.


What is an icon?
Icons are a universal, visual language and they are everywhere from websites, apps, signage, layouts to products, and more; They come in many styles, colors, and formate. An effective icon design conveys a large amount of information in a small, very concise space. 

Process
  • Define the design problem:
    • What concept are you trying to communicate? 
    • Who is your target audience? How do you want them to feel when viewing your work? What should they take away?
  • Research topic & collect information (gather reference images keeping track of all sources).
  • Brainstorm ideas / conceptualize possible design solutions (thumbnails & sketching)
  • Develop design solution:
    • Break down images into their minimal, identifiable components. 
    • Design considerations:
      • Use the composition using the Principles of Design and Elements of Composition as they relate to icon design.
      • Must look good in black and white.
      • Choose appropriate colors.
    • Bring your idea into the software and begin your illustration.
    • Technique matters - use as few anchor points as possible for each paths.
  • Get feedback by presenting your ideas to others.
    • In this course we will seek feedback throughout the entire design process.
  • Improve your design.
  • Submit.

Project Specs
  • Dimensions: 256px x 256px 
  • Orientation: Square
  • Color space: RGB (this project is meant to be viewed on screen)
  • Software: Adobe Illustrator CC - keep all icons in on file, use artboards for each separate icon
  • Organized native file with correctly named layers and artboards showing your variations
  • Document all your reference image sources on your blog along with links to sources / bibliography info (put on blog)
  • I am going to add a few more details here - things we spoke about on Tuesday in class

Deliverables
  • Color laser print of your final project variation on glossy paper; be sure to print your name and date on the back.
  • Native (.ai) and pdf file

CRITIQUE Jan 23 by 6:30p
  • Come to class ready to present your project concepts​ - bring all your sketches
​
SUBMIT Jan 30 by 6:30p
1. Save your file on the teachers station
  • Native file (.ai);
    • must have all layers in tact
    • must show all variations
    • ​Label your files: YourLastName-P1-idiom-date.FileExt 
      Example: matusek-P1-idiom-illustration-180130.ai
​
2. Post to the Blog
  • Image of your final project
  • Artist statement for your piece. Remember to use design visual language. Should be about 1 paragraph in length.

3. Print final project on good quality paper at 8.5" x 11". And bring it to class for critique.
Chris Matusek | Copyright © 2025
  • Home
  • Design Topics
    • 3-Step Design Process
    • Interface and Net Art
    • Logo Design
    • Professional Practices >
      • Portfolio Design
      • Archiving Work
    • Typography >
      • History of Type
  • Vocabulary
    • Formal Elements >
      • Design Topics
    • Resources
    • Tutorials
  • News
  • Market MV
  • Exhibitions
    • JSAE 25-26
    • Visual Voices - 2024-11