2 tutorials I used to create this final:
Artist Statement:
Sometimes, when love is found, those who lack it crave it in abundance. This can be looked at as greed. The recipient of this greed may find it frustrating and irrational leading to a conflict within the relationship. I created this design because it is something I personally relate to and know many others do too. This is a big conflict, as people place a lot of value on love. The heart represents human emotion and love, while the mouth represents greed and taking huge bites. The type a child mischievously takes to bother their sibling. The colors on the design represent intensity, love (red) greed, envy, and/or jealousy (green). I played with the coloring slightly to appeal to the eye however, red and green are the main focus. Along with the heart and mouth aspect of the design, I included spikes. The spikes were an artistic choice that I pulled from my moodboard. The spikes represent a metaphor for roses. Roses are so beautiful to have but sometimes, if held incorrectly, can prick you causing you pain. Just like love with greed.
Reflection:
Creatively, I was pleased with the way my design turned out. This is something one could see a wide range of ages and backgrounds wearing or carrying. I got a second opinion from a friend and family member; they both shared that they would like to wear the design on a black shirt or carry any of the totes. I struggled a bit with the paths and coloring in illustrator but compared to my first tries, I have improved. I learnt a few new time saving skills like live paint and how to make a brush. This helped me explore other ideas and add details instead of rushing. The main challenge I faced was phycological. I had to take a step back and look at my work to see what was missing. I did not do this enough until I reached frustration, then came to this revelation. If I were to spend even more time learning a new skill and adding details, I would play with different textures and shading styles for the heart. I am a paper and pencil type of artist so shading was a bit difficult to figure out on illustrator. I enjoyed that it wasn't a mentally heavy assignment due to the process being mostly done. I believe that the meaning of my design is visually easy to understand which helped solidify what direction I wanted to take it in.
