This project explores the role of software in graphic design practice. Each issue is dedicated to one tool and examines it through the lens of theory, history, visual culture, and designers' experiences.
The journal’s title encompasses two meanings. It can be interpreted as a software skill—understanding the logic of a tool’s operation—or as a soft skill; here, «soft skill» refers to working within context—the ability to relate a technical action to the intended goal.
Deliverable Structure:
- Tool description and overview of all texts
- Historical texts
- Technical manual
- Designer experiences and personal observations (case studies + interviews)
- Semiotics of the tool/function (cultural context)
§ 1
Text Wrap
The first issue of Soft.Skill is dedicated to the Text Wrap tool—a function that allows text to «yield space» to other text, an image, a shape, or empty space.
The scale of the numbers establishes a navigation hierarchy: numbers on the smudge titles mark original texts, numbers in the instructions denote the sequence of actions, and the smallest numbers function as footnotes.
§ 2 Pattern
The second installment of Soft.Skill focuses on the Pattern tool—a function that transforms a single form into a system of repetitions.
The number consists of two parts: a text portion and an appendix with illustrations of embedded Adobe Illustrator patterns.
