"You will create two skateboard graphics using any creative tools you'd like. The first part of the assignment will be to think about, investigate, and define the project's theme as a class. We will further discuss these topics in class. You will then begin the design process with the goal of creating designs that will make your personal interpretation of the theme. You will then be responsible for creating a unique way to display your skateboard for the winter art show. "
As a class we decided on our theme for our skateboards, Dull and Vibrant.
Since the theme is Dull and Vibrant, I wanted to interpret "dull" as common and ordinary, and "vibrant" as extraordinary.
When thinking about the connection between something ordinary and something extraordinary, I decided to base my designs off of transformers. A car or a truck is a common and ordinary object, but a disguised Autobot is extraordinary. Specifically, I wanted to use Optimus Prime and the semi-truck.
Because I had so much detail in my designs, I went with the gel transfer method. I decided that for my Optimus board I would spray paint a white background so that the metal would look more reflective.
After rubbing off the paper on both the truck board and the Optimus board, I realized that I did not add enough gel transfer to my Optimus board, so I sanded off the unsatisfactory image and spray painted the board again to retry the gel transfer. I also used this opportunity to edit my design and make the darker half of Optimus's face a bit brighter to reveal more detail. The gel transfer method failed twice more, despite attempts at different methods, including using special transfer paper.
I did not want to have to redo the Optimus board a fourth time, so Mr. Gonzales helped me print out a sticker and apply it with a minimal amount of bubbles.
After I had finished the board, I used Adobe Photoshop to separate the different parts of my Optimus design, so that I could put it into Adobe Aero. Through Aero, I made the design look 3D. So that people attending the art show could access the 3D Aero component to the project, I made a QR code as the last step in completing my project.
