General provisions

The course is part of the minor field of study Expression in Convergent Media.

Entry requirements

7.5 credits in the areas of expression in convergent media/graphic design, interactive media or culture and media

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the practices and principles of conceptual art, including mark-making, colour theory and the principles of gestalt through practical application.
• Understand the use of visual precedent in order to improve upon their own practices, as well as identify key performance areas within the game design industry.
• Show competency in the creation of conceptual illustration across a variety of digital media.
• Show an understanding of genre and the application of its associated aesthetic traits in practical creative work, and
• Demonstrate ability to problem solve tasks prescribed by the course within the given time frame.

Content

The objective of the course is for the students to gain knowledge of, and skills in development and production of visual concepts within the field of Game Design. This can include, but is not limited to, environmental colour keys, character concepts and prop development.

The course introduces an overall insight into the process of conceptual development for 2 and 3-Dimensional video games, where the focus is on the work process and rapid visual idea development in a feasible visual manner. The course addresses the graphic foundations of idea development and expression for application in video game production, including prop, level, and creature design. Other aspects covered by the course will include practical lighting, character design and basic visual ideation practices under the umbrella of an overarching theme/ genre. This will be emphasised through various theoretical concepts being taught in conjunction with the practical components.

Instruction

The teaching consists of lectures, workshops and assignments.

Assessment

Examination is in the form of a variety of practical assignments, such as drawing or matte painting, throughout the course, accompanied by minor written components and an oral presentation. Grading is based on the degree to which the submissions demonstrate an understanding and application of the course's theoretical, technical and artistic content as specified in the goals and requirements for each assignment.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Other directives

The course partly overlaps 5SD520, Concept Art, 7.5 credtis.