This foundational course at UMBC introduced key design principles and techniques that are required for all visual arts students. Through a series of hands-on projects across various mediums, I explored different forms of visual expression and storytelling. Each project helped me develop a deeper understanding of how design can communicate meaning and evoke emotion, laying the groundwork for my evolving artistic practice
ART 210 - Visual Concepts I | UMBC | Spring 2019
Project 1: Line & Unity
This project focused on the principles of line and unity. Using a 14" x 17" Bristol board and 5" x 5" squares, I created dynamic compositions within a 6x7 grid of 42 two-inch squares. The challenge was to incorporate a limited set of geometric shapes—square, triangle, and circle (each cut to 1" x 1")—to establish visual harmony and movement. The materials used included micron pens and a black Sharpie, which allowed me to experiment with line variation and texture to build unity across the grid
The Completed Project
The Process
Project 2: Shape, Space & Balance
This project focused on shape, space, and balance. Using black construction paper and white drawing paper, I created two compositions with silhouettes of personal objects. The goal was to connect the objects and activate at least three sides of the paper. I chose items that were always with me—my house key, camera lens, and headphones—to explore how these shapes could interact and create balance within the space
The Completed Project
The Process
Project 3: Negative Space & Sequence
This project explored negative space and sequence through linocut printing. Using 6" x 8" linoleum, linocut tools, black water-based ink, and printmaking paper, I created a series of prints that culminated in a narrative for a bound artist’s book. My narrative depicted the Big Bang and the creation of Earth. At the time, unsure of the accompanying text, I drew inspiration from the Easter season and the Book of Genesis, blending the biblical interpretation of creation with the visual sequence of the prints
The Completed Project
The Process
Project 4: Color, Typography & Composition
This project explored color, typography, and composition through the creation of a poster for a cause I’m passionate about. Using 13" x 16" Bristol board and gouache paints, I designed a poster to raise awareness about trophy hunting and its impact on wildlife conservation. As an advocate for protecting endangered species, I wanted to highlight how trophy hunting contributes to the decline of magnificent animals in the wild
The Completed Project
The Process
