Cullen, K. "A Real World Guide to Building Pages in Graphic Design". July 2005
Noble, I./Bestley, R. "Experimental Layout (design Fundamentals)". November 2001
Pink, B./Glaser, J. "Creative Solutions: Layout: Making it Fit: Finding the right balance between content and space (creative solutions)". September 2005.

At the end of this module you will submit a body of work as outlined in the module handbook.
This will include a research file containing appropriate annotated research into a diverse range of layouts and composition techniques as well as practicing artists and designers (Learning Outcome: 1).
Sketchbooks; containing evidence of experimentation using a variety of layouts and compositions. Using sketchbooks and a layout pad you will develop a range of possible solutions through rough visuals demonstrating the ability to solve design layout problems (Learning Outcomes: 2,4).
Initial ideas will be developed to produce finished designs using appropriate media (Learning Outcomes: 3).

A range of studio based project work will provide the framework through which learning will take place; it will integrate the practical with the theoretical and the technical aspects of layout and composition. Studio work will be supported by introductory lectures and seminars; work in progress will be monitored through group tutorials and critiques.
Insight into the visual impact layout and composition have on design in our environment will be achieved through an organised trip to a nearby town/city.
Group instruction in design software; Quark Xpress, Indesign and Illustrator.

This module will enable you to explore the ways in which the arrangement of visual elements; photographs, illustrations, typography, colour and texture can be juxtaposed for maximum visual impact. Layout and composition control the tone and express the personality of visual communication. You will be required to consider the relationships between each element of a design, consider their impact on each other. Provide evidence of your understanding of how layout and composition can influence an audience, controlling the way in which they perceive graphic design by using alignment, balance, consistency, contrast, proximity, and white space.
Through your research you will be required to analyse a broad range of communication design from packaging to poster design to pages in publications to reflect how designers use visual elements to create tension, harmony or a particular mood.
Through set projects you will design and develop a layout and composition to answer a specific visual communication problem.

Library
Internet access
Macintosh G5s (Graphics Studio)
Software: Quark Xpress, Indesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
Black and White A4/A3 printer (Graphics Studio)
Specialist Skills 'modulettes' will be assigned to this module; Indesign and Illustrator.
A comprehensive list of all modulettes is available from the Faculty Office.