Design Principles - Task 3: Development & Design
16/03/2026 - 23/03/2026 (Week 07 - Week 08)
PHANG QI YU / 0385732
Design Principles GCD60804 / Bachelor of Design in Creative Media / Taylors University
Task 3: Development & Design
Table of Content
1. Lecture
2. Instructions
3. Process Work
4. Feedback
5. Reflection
LECTURES
INSTRUCTIONS
PROCESS WORK
Selected Sketches in Task 2:
Development & Design:
For Task 3, we were allowed to choose the medium used to create the design artwork. I chose the Procreate app as my medium because I am more familiar with the brushes and tools available on my iPad.
Timelapse of the Sketch Development Process:
Timelapse of Sketch Process & Progress (Procreate)
Feedback for My Draft Sketch:
I had Mr. Max review my draft sketch (Fig. 4) and shared my new idea of replacing the human figure walking toward the lamp with a figure reaching toward it.
Firstly, Mr. Max pointed out that the hand holding the lamp was a bit small. I could try making the lamp larger; otherwise, the hand might appear bigger than the lamp, which would look odd.
Regarding the idea I suggested, Mr. Max felt that the perspective might be a bit off. If the figure appears to be touching the lamp but is also far away, it will look unnatural. He therefore suggested changing the figure to a back view, which would work better compositionally and conceptually. He emphasized that the figure should be smaller and farther away, and that overly bright colors should be avoided for this element.
Final Digital Artwork:
Final Artwork Rationale:
For my Task 3 final project, I decided to sketch an artwork that follows a concept similar to the one I selected in Task 2. While maintaining the original concept, I also focused on applying appropriate design principles in my sketch. My goal is for the artwork to convey a feeling of warmth and hope to the viewers. I chose to keep the same theme as the previous artwork, which is set in the winter season. To create a lonely and cold atmosphere, I sketched several trees surrounding the scene. Additionally, I added a gradient to the sky in the background to enhance the sense of depth and visual vibrance.
Most importantly, I composed the artwork using the Rule of Thirds. This compositional principle helps balance the overall visual elements and ensures that the artwork carries equal visual weight. As a result, it creates a stronger sense of order and stability in the composition. In addition, I sketched the lamp as the main element to create contrast between the background and the object. The purpose is to draw the viewer’s attention to the lamp at first sight.
This artwork conveys the message that no matter how dark the situation is or how lonely someone may feel, there will always be a light that shines on them and guides them forward. The human figure from behind represents the idea that when we walk alone in the dark, there is always a light guiding our journey. It reminds us not to forget that there will always be a light waiting to give us hope. The winter setting enhances the atmosphere of the artwork, creating a sense of isolation, as if the journey must be walked alone. The trees I sketched also have a symbolic connection to the receding figure and the winter season. They stand alone in the cold environment, waiting for the light to shine on them and awaken them once again. For humans, the light represents hope; for the trees, it symbolizes the arrival of summer and the promise of a new beginning.
The design principles used in my final artwork include the Rule of Thirds, which helps create balance in the overall composition. I also applied contrast to emphasize the difference between the dark sky and the bright yellow light, which enhances the visual impact of the artwork. In addition, repetition and movement are used to guide the viewer’s eye through the composition, creating a stronger visual flow and leaving a deeper impression on the viewer. Harmony and unity also play an important role in connecting all the elements through the use of colors and composition. These principles help the artwork appear more cohesive and visually pleasing. Overall, the artwork reminds us that even in the darkest times, there’s always a light to hold on to.
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Detailed Explanation of My Rationale:
Here, I will explain the design decisions I made and the meaning/purpose behind the design.
- In my final artwork, I decided to give the overall visual effect a style similar to crayon, acrylic paint, or vintage artwork paint style. The colors blend together smoothly and complement each other. I used several different brush tools, such as the "Gloaming" and "Freycinet" brushes, to achieve the effect I wanted.
- I added a human silhouette from behind at the center of the composition because I felt that the artwork I selected in Task 2 appeared somewhat empty. Instead of having only the aspen trees surrounding the scene, including a person seen from behind walking away in the middle helps convey the message I want to express more clearly.
- I sketched something similar to the artwork I selected, using bright yellow to immediately catch the viewer’s attention. Instead of simply adding yellow to the background, I represented the bright yellow as an actual object, a lamp. This lamp serves as the main focus and illuminates the entire artwork.
- Furthermore, in my first draft sketch (Fig. 3), the figure was simply walking toward the light. Later, I changed it to a back view of a person slowly walking away. This shift emphasizes that the lamp becomes the only source of comfort in the dark and cold winter night. It suggests that even in moments of darkness, there is always a light that can guide us forward.
1. The Lamp
- The lamp is the only source that illuminates the entire composition of the artwork. It represents hope, guidance, and comfort. If you notice, I sketched a hand holding the lamp, the hand belongs to another figure extending the lamp toward the figure in the center, giving them strength to keep going and reminding them that there is always something to brighten their path.
- The lamp act as the main object in the whole composition, it can be said that without the lamp, the whole artwork will be dull and boring. So, I added the lamp to reinforce the overall ambience.
2. The Trees
- I sketched several trees around the main object to help create balance in the overall composition. The trees are all bare, without leaves, which adds a sense of loneliness and cold.
- I also added snow lying on the branches to further emphasize the cold, lonely winter setting. Although the trees are empty and lifeless, they need the light to brighten them and bring them back to life.
- Some might think the trees have no connection to the artwork, but what I wanted to convey is that the trees also experience loneliness. Covered in snow, they too have emotion, similar to humans. They are waiting for the light to shine on them, giving them warmth and the chance to grow again.
- Some of the trees are short and covered in snow, struggling to grow in the cold and lonely winter. They show that even though they are small, they continue to survive and grow, persevering through the harsh conditions.
3. The Hand Holding a Lamp
The hand holding the lamp symbolizes a lamp of hope. Its light brightens the surroundings, offering warmth to both people and nature. By including the hand, I aim to guide those walking alone through darkness, reminding them that a light is always there, quietly illuminating their path.
4. The Snow
- The snow acts as a background theme in my artwork. I set the scene in winter, and by surrounding the objects with snow, the visual effect is enhanced for the viewer.
- Winter is a season when nature slows down, and time seems to move more quietly. It often represents sadness, isolation, and personal struggle.
- Many artists also choose winter as a background in their works to convey similar emotions and create a stronger emotional impact. By using snow and the winter setting, I aimed to reflect both the quietness of the scene and the emotional atmosphere I wanted the viewer to feel.
5. The Dark Blue Sky/Background
- I chose dark blue for the sky and background to represent night. The night setting allows the main focal point to stand out more strongly.
- The dark blue contrasts sharply with the bright yellow light, guiding the viewer’s eye to the lamp first rather than other elements.
- I tried added a gradient to the background, blending lighter blue with hints of yellow. The yellow represents the light illuminating part of the sky, while the lighter blue enhances depth and makes the sky appear more natural and visually interesting. Using only one color would make the sky look flat and dull, whereas the gradient adds liveliness and realism.
- The dark blue symbolizes sadness, fragility, depression, and coldness, reinforcing the emotional atmosphere of the artwork.
6. Human Silhouette from Behind/ Figure Walking Away
- The human figure represents anyone who feels lonely yet continues to move forward through the darkness.
- Though alone, they persist on their journey. The lamp illuminates the figure from behind, enhancing the overall atmosphere and symbolizing hope and warmth that guides one’s path.
- I chose to sketch the figure from behind, walking away, because in life, everyone experiences moments of solitude and emotional struggle.
- Depicting the human figure in this way reflects a true-to-life experience. Moreover, including the figure elevates the painting’s overall mood, conveying a sense of loneliness intertwined with warmth.
7. Choice of Colors
- These colors are used in the light. Yellow is often associated with happiness, joy, and hope, which fits the role of the lamp as a symbol of hope in my artwork. I mixed yellow with orange to create a warm and energetic feeling. Adding orange brings vibrancy and optimism, making the lamp stand out and feel alive against the dark background.
- As explained above, dark blue helps create a lonely atmosphere. It reflects the fragile and sensitive feelings of both humans and nature.
- At the same time, it contrasts strongly with the bright yellow and orange light, making the hope and warmth in the artwork stand out.
Design Principles in My Artwork:
I applied design principles based on the artwork I previously selected. Here are the design principles used in my artwork:
1. Rule of Thirds
The Rule of Thirds helps create a more balanced and engaging composition in my artwork, making it more visually appealing to viewers.
- In the artwork above, the human silhouette from behind is placed along the left vertical line, and the light placed on the right which creating balanced.
- The snowy ground sits the lower horizontal line while the sky/background fills the upper area, guiding the viewer's eye through the scene and making the composition more visually engaging.
- The elements in the artwork feel well-proportioned because of the Rule of Thirds, which creates a sense of stability. Arranging the elements according to this principle makes the composition feel harmonious and natural.
- Each element occupies its own space, and nothing appears out of place.
2. Harmony & Unity
All the elements I sketched, such as the lamp, the tree trunks, the human figure from behind, the hand, and the snow are visually connected. They are tied together through a cohesive color palette and story, creating a sense of wholeness and harmony. Everything appears to belong together, presenting a complete and balanced artwork. By combining various design principles, the composition achieves a harmonious and engaging visual experience.
3. Contrast
- I used color contrast and size contrast in my artwork, such as the bright yellow color and the large size of the lamp, to emphasize the focal point. This allows viewers to easily notice the lamp/light and makes it stand out.
- The dark blue sky strongly contrasts with the bright yellow light, making it stand out as the main element. I added light and dark color gradients to both the sky and the lamp to create depth, making the scene feel more three-dimensional and realistic.
- You may also notice that the areas closer to the lamp have touches of bright yellow. This helps the colors blend together more naturally and creates the feeling that the surroundings are gradually being illuminated by the light. In contrast, the areas farther from the lamp remain darker, which highlights the difference between the lit and unlit parts of the scene.
4. Balance
- It is clear that I applied the Rule of Thirds, which also helps create balance in the composition. The Rule of Thirds is a guideline for achieving balance in visual design.
- My artwork demonstrates asymmetrical yet balance. Although the elements are different in size and shape, they still create a balanced composition. The dark trees and the snow in the background help distribute the visual weight across the artwork, making the overall composition feel stable and harmonious.
- Negative space (snow, dark sky) balances the heavier elements visually, keeping the composition stable but dynamic at the same time.
5. Repetition
6. Movement & Rhythm
I applied the design principle of movement in the tree trunks, sketching them to sway gently back and forth. Additionally, the human figure walking away creates a sense of motion, reinforcing the dynamic quality of the composition.
- I added some curved tree trunks so that the swirls convey a stronger sense of energy, motion, and movement in the artwork.
- Rather than letting the trunks stand straight, I made them sway slightly to guide the viewer’s eye smoothly throughout the composition, making the overall visual more dynamic and comfortable to perceive.
- The movement flows from the bottom to the top of the trunks, creating a rhythmic connection between the trees and the lamp, which brings the scene to life and gives it a continuous flow.
- The back view of the human figure slowly walking away also contributes to the sense of movement. While the figure is not actually moving, its posture and direction convey a sense of journey and progression.
- Also, the image conveys a sense of strong wind blowing around the human figure. If you look closely, the movement of the trees and the figure suggests that the wind is powerful, creating a strong sense of dynamic flow throughout the composition.
- Together, the swaying trees and the walking figure create a dynamic interaction that makes the composition feel lively and cohesive.
7. Scale & Proportion
After adjusting the human figure, I realized that I also applied the design principles of scale and proportion. The figure is smaller in comparison to the lamp and the trees, which emphasizes depth, draws focus, and adds emotional significance. The use of scale and proportion makes the overall composition more dynamic and engaging.
FEEDBACK
Week 07:
This week is an online consultation week. We can either join the consultation session or send our progress to Mr. Max. I’ve already sent him my task progression links via WhatsApp. I asked Mr. Max a few questions about the final compilation. Then, he reviewed all my task work, and I think everything is okay since he gave me a thumbs up on WhatsApp.
Week 08:
There will be no feedback this week, as it is the final week to finish the assignment.
REFLECTIONS
Experience
My experience in Task 3 was a bit challenging but also very interesting for me. I explored different artworks and thought about various ideas. The process of developing ideas was quite enjoyable because I could think creatively and sketch what I wanted while still following the instructions given. It felt extremely fulfilling when I first showed my sketch ideas to Mr. Max and he approved them. At that moment, I felt that my hard work had paid off, and I felt very satisfied and happy.
During the Task 3 process, I also felt a little puzzled because it was my first time using the Procreate application. Previously, I was more familiar with other sketching apps. However, I wanted to try Procreate because many of my friends were using it, and I thought it would be convenient for me as well. At first, it was quite confusing because I did not really understand the brushes and techniques for sketching. After practicing several times, I slowly became more familiar with the app, and I was able to complete my Task 3 successfully. Finally, I would like to thank Mr. Max for his guidance and suggestions on my Task 3 artwork! Without his feedback, completing the task might have been much more difficult.
Observations
In this task, I gained a deeper understanding of design principles and learned how to explain them in detail when analyzing an artwork. I also noticed that I am gradually paying more attention to the details of my own artwork and constantly thinking about whether I have applied the design principles properly. I found it interesting that design principles have been widely used in many artworks since the past. I also observed how hard many students worked to complete this task. Some struggled with their sketches, while others found the coloring process challenging. It was touching to see everyone putting in their effort to produce their best artwork. Throughout the process, I realized that every detail is important. A small improvement can bring the artwork closer to perfection, while a small mistake can move it further away from it. Even small elements such as color gradients or shadows can change the entire visual effect. In my opinion, details determine everything.
Findings
My findings from this final task are that during the design process, exploration and experimentation with different colors, compositions, and visual effects are never enough, and there is always more room to improve creativity. When I searched for references on Pinterest, I noticed that many artworks use similar colors but apply them in different ways. For example, artists use different gradient techniques, blending methods, and color combinations. Although the colors may be similar, each artwork expresses different emotions through these techniques.
The most challenging part of this task was the coloring process. I realized that choosing the right colors is very important. I struggled with color mixing and blending two colors together to create a smooth visual effect. I tried many times, but the results sometimes looked strange. After that, I asked Mr. Max for help, and he guided me through the process. With his assistance, I was able to learn and improve my coloring techniques. Overall, I think this task helped train us to better understand design principles by applying them directly through our own hand-drawn sketches!
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