The aim of the Visual Communications course is to give students insights into the principles of broadly considered architectural visualisation, augmenting their conceptual, analytical, and presentational skills. These skills build upon their prior knowledge, and will be further tested and improved in the Architectural Design Studio.
The Visual Communications II module introduces basic visual techniques as conceptual and analytical tools, as well as a means of architectural representation. This module aims to develop the learner’s critical awareness of the importance of observation, recording, and dissemination of architectural ideas, as well as to provide the learner with tools for analysing and developing architectural design through digital sketching and diagramming essential ideas and themes.
During this Module, students learn the basics of essential digital software, which, combined with manual drawing, painting, and model-making techniques introduced in the Architectural Design Studio, is used to create architectural representations.
Indicative assignments for the Visual Communications II module:
1. Analysis 1 – an experiential site analysis drawings produced as computer graphics (site mapping and place mapping).
Theory:
architectural analysis and its visual representation,
computer raster and vector graphics.
Technique:
computer raster graphics.
2. Drawing 1 - diagram as a visualisation of the architectural idea.
Theory:
architectural diagram as shorthand of visual communication,
computer aster and vector graphics.
Technique:
computer vector graphics.
3. Drawing 2 – mixed-media presentation – an enhanced watercolour image.
Theory:
combining analogue and digital techniques as a means of visual communication.
Techniques:
watercolour painting,
scanning,
printing,
image enhancement – computer raster graphics.
4. Rendered image 1 – a 2D conceptual collage.
Theory:
collage as a technique to communicate ideas,
combining analogue and digital techniques as a design tool, and a means of visual communication,
Techniques:
hand drawing,
scanning,
applying raster textures to 2D drawings.
5. Rendered image 2 – a 3D visualisation of the architectural qualities of a project based on a photograph of a physical model.
Theory:
architectural imagery,
computer generated imagery (CGI),
architectural photography,
combining analogue and digital techniques as a means of visual communication.
Techniques:
physical model making,
photography,
applying raster textures to 3D drawings.
In addition, during the semester all participants prepare a digital portfolio including all the work produced for the module. This portfolio hinges on the key concepts and techniques of desktop publishing (DTP) including interactive presentation techniques.
The method through which the learners gain insights into the principles of architectural representation, analysis, and visualisation is based on thoroughly investigating one problem within the thematic field. This problem can be investigated through an individual assignment, or can become a theme for one semester, investigated through more or all the assignments. Investigating one problem thoroughly will equip the learner with the methodical approach necessary to investigate another.
The module consists of a few short assignments. The lectures, tutorials, and presentations relate to the assignments’ themes. The participants are required to work under the supervision of the tutors during the designated hours as well autonomously outside the contact hours. Attendance is critical to following the module and completing the assignments therefore attendance records are taken on regular basis.
Each assignment is reviewed, and feedback is provided to the participants.
At the end of the semester, all the assignments are presented as a single portfolio. This portfolio is the basis for the assessment.
Further to the themed lectures, tutorials, and presentations a few workshops can be carried out during the module, at the discretion of the module coordinator. These workshops may be aimed at collaboration with another module, or address an issue resulting from the year’s curriculum.
Other involved learning at teaching methods include:
demonstrations,
project work,
peer group presentations,
guest lectures,
video (film),
readings,
group critiques,
group discussions,
working in small teams.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |