Nanodegree Program
This Nanodegree explores digital art and graphic design through software like Canva, focusing on 2D shapes, layout, and Mondrian-inspired compositions. It covers color theory, RGB, and Hex codes, using Adobe Color for custom themes. We'll examine the printing press's impact, typography, and typeface selection. We will also delve into texture, space, and spatial depth in art, learn about balance and scale in composition, and explore symmetry and asymmetry. Furthermore, we'll learn about contrast and pattern, movement, rhythm, emphasis, and visual hierarchy in design. We will also learn about unity, including Gestalt principles and design brief analysis. In the final project, you will design a vector-based poster for your social media website, showcasing your graphic design skills.
This Nanodegree explores digital art and graphic design through software like Canva, focusing on 2D shapes, layout, and Mondrian-inspired compositions. It covers color theory, RGB, and Hex codes, using Adobe Color for custom themes. We'll examine the printing press's impact, typography, and typeface selection. We will also delve into texture, space, and spatial depth in art, learn about balance and scale in composition, and explore symmetry and asymmetry. Furthermore, we'll learn about contrast and pattern, movement, rhythm, emphasis, and visual hierarchy in design. We will also learn about unity, including Gestalt principles and design brief analysis. In the final project, you will design a vector-based poster for your social media website, showcasing your graphic design skills.
Visual design principles • Canva • Visual Design Elements
No experience required
Courses In This Program
Course 1 • 45 minutes
Welcome to the Nanodegree Program!
Welcome to Udacity! We're excited to share more about your Nanodegree program and start this journey with you!
Course 2 • 8 hours
Elements of Design
Digital art and graphic design shape our visual environment using vector graphics and design principles. Through software like Canva, we'll explore 2D shapes, format, layout, and design tools, creating a Mondrian-inspired composition. We'll delve into color theory, RGB, Hex codes, and the color wheel and create custom color themes using Adobe Color. Additionally, we'll examine the historical impact of the printing press, typography, type classifications, anatomy, and the process of choosing typefaces in design and digital arts.
Course 3 • 8 hours
Elements of Design and Composition
This course delves into texture in both fine arts and the digital realm, utilizing images, lines, shapes, typography, and layered colors to create depth and a tactile sense. The concept of space is explored, encompassing foreground, middleground, background, and perspective, with techniques for recreating depth using basic elements. The course also covers balance and scale in composition, including understanding visual weight, achieving harmony through balanced and counterbalanced elements, and exploring symmetry and asymmetry in design.
Course 4 • 6 hours
Composition
This course focuses on movement and rhythm in compositions, utilizing repetition and rhythm to establish visual flow. By manipulating elements and utilizing Canva's animation tools, we can guide the viewer's eye movement. Visual hierarchy and emphasis are explored, examining their historical use in advertisem*nts and understanding the order of importance in emphasizing focal points. Points of entry and design briefs are analyzed to enhance understanding. Achieving unity in compositions is also covered, including the concept of unity and various approaches to achieve it. The relation between Gestalt groupings and unity is explored, along with an analysis of a design brief.
Taught By The Best
Joshua Wilder Oakley
Visual Communications Professor at California State University San Francisco
Joshua Wilder Oakley is currently a Visual Communications Professor at California State University San Francisco and has also taught at the University of San Francisco. His teaching philosophy mirrors his design philosophy - make the world a better place through good design and visual problem solving. In addition to teaching, Oakley is also a Freelance Graphic Designer and Photographer.
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4 Months
Average time to complete a Nanodegree program
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Digital Arts Foundations
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4 Months
Average time to complete a Nanodegree program
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