┃ POSTER: FROM CONCEPT TO COMPOSITION
┃ WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT?
How to convey an idea with a single image? How to make text the main element of a composition? How to find a powerful solution for a familiar topic?
In this course, you will take a journey from defining the problem to producing a finished poster. You will explore visual concepts, create sketches, and work with typography, imagery, color, and composition.
You will attempt to solve one assignment in three ways: through typography, through imagery, and through their combination. You will compare the options, select the most compelling solution, and prepare it for print.
┃ WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
• For students in design disciplines who want to master poster design.• For beginner designers who need to learn how to transform an idea into a clear visual message.• For illustrators who want to work with a combination of imagery and typography.
┃ FORMAT AND DURATION
Duration: 6 weeks.
Total workload: 48 academic hours, including 24 contact hours and 24 hours of independent study.
Format: Online, two sessions per week, with each session lasting two academic hours.
Classes include case study analysis, practical exercises, sketch discussions, and project feedback.
┃ WHAT IS REQUIRED TO STUDY?
Basic proficiency in a graphic editor: working with text, images, and layers.
A computer with a graphic editor installed will be required to complete the assignments.
Prior experience in poster design is not necessary. This course can be taken independently, regardless of other courses.
┃ WHAT WILL ATTENDEES LEARN?
↗ Formulate a poster message based on the audience and placement context.↗ Discover visual ideas through associations, comparisons, and metaphors.↗ Utilize typography and imagery as expressive tools.↗ Construct composition, manage hierarchy, color, and contrast.↗ Compare options, justify your choices, and refine the design.↗ Prepare the poster layout for print according to specified technical requirements.
┃ PROJECT ASSIGNMENTS
01 / Concept and IdeaChoose a theme, define the audience, and formulate the poster’s core message. Gather references and propose several initial sketch ideas.02 / One Problem, Three SolutionsDevelop three distinct poster concepts: one where typography is the dominant element, one where imagery leads, and one that achieves a balanced synergy between the two. Maintain the central message while varying the method of its delivery.03 / Selection and RefinementCompare the options based on message clarity, expressiveness, and legibility. Select one and refine the composition, typography, and color palette.04 / Prepress PreparationPrepare the final A2 layout. Verify dimensions, image quality, font usage, and export parameters. Present the final work and articulate the decisions made throughout the process.
┃ THEMATIC PLAN
01 / Poster as Communication
The task, the audience, and the context of placement. Analyzing examples. Formulating your own brief.02 / Visual Idea Generation
Associations, metaphors, and comparisons. Working with references. Creating and selecting sketches.03 / Typography
Font selection, scale, rhythm, and hierarchy. Text as information and image. Legibility.04 / Imagery
Photography, illustration, and collage. Interaction between image and text.05 / Composition and Color
Contrast, emphasis, and negative space. Comparing options. Refining the chosen solution.06 / Final Mockup
Preparation for print. Documenting the design process. Presentation and discussion of the project.
┃ COURSE SUMMARY
Finished original posters, prepared for printing.
The final submission must include a brief description of the brief, initial sketches, three design variations, and the final layout with an explanation of the chosen concept.
┃ HOW IS THE RESULT GRADED?
• Clarity of the main message.• Alignment of the visual concept with the theme and audience.• Expressiveness of the composition, hierarchy, and legibility.• Justification for the choice of the final variant.• Compliance of the file with specified print requirements.
