Conceptual Development

• Why do we see posters in public?
• Who are the posters trying to address?

New York based designer Gail Anderson says:
“A good deal of information has to live on each design”

Useful Technique In Poster Design

Start by clearly identifing three big ideas and three key messages

Answer these questions

• What will make the average attendee attend?
• What makes the poster's subject different from the other choices out there?
• What are you promoting
• Why should the poster viewer care about your cause or event?

Let's continue this for Arbor Day… arborday.org

A Rough based on our in-class brainstorming

Visualization

This is where creativity comes into play. How can a concept be turned into a visual? Musicians have a similar creative activity, called "riffing"

Let's try some:

• Planting trees
• Shade
• "Mighty oaks from little acorns grow"

Remember: In terms of semiotic significations, everything means something.

Composition Basics

Our book has a pretty good summary of this:

1. Grab Attention

Capture the viewers gaze and keep it.

2. Set it apart

Differentiate the poster through color, typography, and imagery from its surroundings.

3. Communicate key messages

Visual hierarchy is paramount. Put what's most important first and foremost.

4. Single surface, one unit

Posters are usually seen from a distance. Since a poster is seen from a distance, ensure that all component parts act in concert to form a cohesive entity. What does the viewer see in a moments glance?