Shape Assignment (8:00 - 10:50)

Shape Assignment
Comic Book Frames
Due: January 28th

Shape is an important part of how we see things. Sometimes even the simplest of shapes can evoke a multitude of memories or emotions. One can find examples of this everywhere. A line with a bent top can make us think of a candy cane or a shepherd’s staff. The simple outline of a Coke bottle is an immediate signifier for us, as is an Absolut vodka bottle. The shape of a cross is used in religion as a signifier. The list goes on and on.
For this project, we will work on using shape to tell a story in comic book format. Comic books are created with frames. At their most banal the frames are rectangles that contain action. At their best, the frames can be incredibly indicative as to what action is taking place inside of them. The format in which these frames are situated on the page, the amount of frames, and the variety of shapes can sometimes tell the story just as well as the action inside the frames.
Create 4 sequential pages on your Bristol pad. Sketch out your shapes first, and see how they will be situated on the page. Once you have decided on your layout, draw the shapes in pencil. Your ruler should be helpful for this. Once you are satisfied how things are laid out, you should trace the lines in ink. Lines should be very clean and intentional.

Issues to address:
- Do the shapes work together?
- Do the shapes create a theme?
- Do they move from left to right (as they would in a comic book)?
- Is there enough variety?