Research
Abstractions and Image Analysis
Transfer of Abstraction Sketches to Adobe Illustrator
I created shapes in illustrator out of 5 of my original abstraction sketches to use in my final mandala.
Exercises
3×3 Square Composition
After looking back on my 3×3 and 9×9 compositions, I realized I just placed two separate abstractions into the same square instead of combining the two forms together to create something new. I chose two of my shapes in illustrator that looked like their shapes/curves would combine well and worked to integrate them into a single composition by layering.
Iterations
Grid Design
3 New Radial Grids (symmetrical/asymmetrical, circular, or new grid shape)
Testing Illustrator Tools
First Iteration of Mandala
Mandala Draft (Original Final Before Feedback)
Final Mandala Design
After receiving feedback on my mandala draft, I decided to focus on arranging my abstractions in a way that emphasizes the principle of movement. I organized the abstract elements in a way that creates movement throughout the mandala as a whole as well as between each element, creating a cohesive design.
Adding Value to Final Mandala Design
Color Schemes
Color Palette Tests In Mandala
These two color palettes were created based on color schemes we discussed in the PowerPoints during class. However, when adding the colors to my mandala pattern, I struggled to create a meaningful visual impact. This led me to choosing my final color schemes based on concepts related to my mandala, instead of ones I simply thought were visually pleasing.
Production
Final Color Schemes
Final Mandala
Furthering My Exploration
I felt that my designs conveyed the principle of movement and the meanings behind the mandalas effectively. However, I felt that there were a few other changes I could make in order to further explore how the analogous color scheme can affect the visual impact of my mandala design. Instead of moving the viewer’s eyes around the circular mandala, I organized the colors to create movement from the center focal point to the elements on the outside edges of the design.
Additionally, when I did my original color palette tests in my mandala, I chose to use a blue analogous color scheme because blue is my favorite color. I still enjoyed the visual of this color palette, so I decided to explore how I could use it in my design to emphasize the same principle of movement.
