My design teaching philosophy is rooted in years of experience as a graphic design and book arts professional. I have worked in many different settings: ad agencies small and large; in-house design, communications and marketing departments in various industries, in addition to my own studio whereI work in both traditional and contemporary processes. This varied experience enhances my teaching because I know what my students will encounter as design and studio art professionals. Hand skills are critical, as is exposure to all kinds of visual communication and developing an eye for typographic detial.
Intro to Typography is required for both graphic design and studio art majors. In these examples students wrote a haiku, and then used letterpress tor a pressure-printed background, or a marbled background, setting type to best suit the design. The project covers typographic considerations, along with learning about antique printing and type processes, as well as concepts such as Japanese “MA” or spacial considerations.
Sophomore level Print & Publication Design works on real projects with real clients. This class produced the Spanish Literary Magazine, Azahares, every year. Students work in teams and present to the client who chooses the final winner.
Senior Thesis by R. Long: a series of children’s books about women of importance in science and culture.
Senior Thesis by T. .Daggett: Print materials to bring awareness for teenagers of the importance of voting.