Bethany Ediger

Practical Schematic Design

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:29:00 +0000

The purpose of this design is to visually communicate the existing identity of KCAI across the built environment to unify and identify the campus. The use of the core graphic and lime green as well as the primary color will act as key elements that will extend the existing brand. This will be used to reflect energy, activity and artistic spirit directed towards visitors, new students, and existing students, faculty and staff. All materials will be pulled from the surrounding environment at KCAI and extending to both interior and exterior identification.

KCAI: Schematic Design Presentation

KCAI Way-finding: Concept 01

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:53:00 +0000

Ian and I would like to delineate the space through hierarchy of the buildings; 1) numbers 2) Name/Address and 3) icons for building purpose. The numbers will be a system for identifying the locations in case the purpose of the buildings change (as they always do). The name and address are a secondary way-finding clue for each location. The address will be used for those buildings that do not have a specific name. The icons will be the smallest hierarchical point for identifying the buildings so that they will be easy to replace in case of building purpose change. These will be used in both flat and three-dimensional forms.

This simplified number and icon system will be used to identify through directionals and identification both on the interior and exterior.

Our plan is to stay consistent with the existing brand as much as possible. We are not trying to change the identity in any way—just how it is used. This means we will be using the existing colors and fabrication materials. Our goal is to take the initial purpose of the brand (artistic spirit, energy and activity) and put our own impression of what this actually means. We would like to make special use of large-scale dimensional and graphic forms on and around the buildings

We have programmed the outside space:

Mod+Modern

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:07:00 +0000

Modern Presentation

Architecture + Hair Process

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 17:16:00 +0000

Taylor and I are drawing parallels from Corbusier's architecture and hair and fashion from the 1960s that was directly influenced by Corbu. Although we are including influences in the exhibit as well as the app, architecture is still the focus of the space. We have begun to explore the wall space (bottom floor only), concentrating on imagery, shapes, curves and quotes from the presentation (seen below). This could include things like building off of the walls and showing the comparison through juxtaposed images.

The supporting technology will be an iphone application that will be accessed after the visitor reads the introduction text at the front/entrance of the H&R Blockspace. The app will introduce the space and give a map as a reference of each specific point (5) in the space. The map will not be very detailed but will include small explanations of each point when touched on screen. Each of the five points exhibited in the space will have a corresponding place in the app. Here, the viewer will be able to reveal multiple layers of information about that point. In some cases, it will include direct interaction with the exhibit (EX/ Ribbon window scan to reveal light/outside on the screen of the phone). [MORE SKETCHES + WIREFRAMES POSTED SOON]

Architecture+Hair

Senior Show Concept Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 02:57:00 +0000

Senior Show Presentation

Poetic Monument: Ausdauer

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 17:33:00 +0000

Final Drawings:

In German, Ausdauer means “endurance and perseverance.” Literally translated, it means “staying power” or timeless. Our poetic monument is to the calligraphic, german hand Fraktur. The qualities we identified were repetition, equal strokes, and conscious angles. We chose to place the monument in Nuremberg, Germany.Because this was where Fraktur was designed by Hieronymus Andreae. To show the fluidity and meditation of the hand, we chose to place the monument in the river that runs through Nuremberg. A park stands on one side of the river with residential neighborhood surrounding both sides. We abstracted the fraktur alphabet into strokes. Each structure stands with equal distance between the representational “strokes.” This shows the rhythm and structure of the letterforms. The word shown is “Ausdauer” beginning with a capital, red, “A.” The supporting dock that surrounds the monument allows the viewer to see and appreciate the power and height from all sides. The monument reflects in the water and allows for the natural flow to move in and out of the strokes. These structures are made of coated iron to prevent rust in the water with the capital painted red. We chose to make the forms hollow on the inside and allow the wind to move over the tops of the structures which produces a slight humming noise. This represents the meditative quality of lettering calligraphy.

Ausdauer represents the enduring qualities of fraktur; authority through size, enduring history, meditative fluidity in sound and location, and structure in form.

Calligraphy Monument: Fraktur 02

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:02:00 +0000

*The sound made from the monument will be similar to the singing ringing tree that uses the wind and hallow tubes to produce a calm, meditative noise.

The dock will hold a plaque that explains the monument as visitors are allowed to walk around the meaning of Ausdauer. The following text is what we plan on telling visitors. Obviously, this will be read in both German and English as they are the primary languages of the area (95% German, 51% English).

"Fraktur blackletter figures were first designed by Nuremberg native, Hieronymus Andreae for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (c. 1493–1519). The term Fraktur is derived from the Latin term "to break" and calligraphy from Greek meaning "beautiful writing". This calligraphic hand is made up of repetitive strokes of the same weight with broken lines and a consistent angle. The process of calligraphy emphasizes harmony, consistency and retains a meditative quality. After its creation, Fraktur soon became the primary typeface of Germany and the surrounding countries and was set until the 20th Century. Today, Fraktur remains a reminder of rich history and significance to the German culture."

Calligraphy Monument: Fraktur

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:49:00 +0000

Ian and I have finalized our location to a river called, Wörhrder See. This remains in Nuremberg, Germany but doesn't call special attention to the creator of fraktur. We chose to place it in the water because it is a symbol of the fluidity of the form and process of creation while, at the same time, keeping the rigidity and authority of the letters themselves as well as their printed structure. The sound of the water hitting the monument will act as a calming and almost meditative sound through it's repetition. We chose an open location by the river that has a dock and friendly setting without obstructions.

The standard height of a room is 8'. This is the base for our x-height which would make the final monument 14' above water level. The river runs around 9' 10'' at it's deepest point. The monument will equal 15' below the surface of the water. Each structure will be placed one unit apart from the other. Our drawing is .5'' = 1' scale. The monument would be 194' long. The width is 2'. Monument = 2' x 2' x 4' (or 29' for ascenders) solid iron structures. The top of each stroke will angle at 15° this adds an additional .5' on the height.

We chose iron ore as our material because it is a natural resource found in Germany. This material provides a solid structure that can embody intimidation and authority as well as impress the viewer.

Aerial Location View:

Initial Concept Mock-up:

Concept Sketches:

Direction Board:

Poetic: Defining Idea

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:27:00 +0000

Ian and I would like to recognize the elegance and emotion of calligraphy. We have identified a few characteristics associated with calligraphy that will help direct our form. These include; motion, strokes, ink, texture, content, and special attention to curves and angles. The location should inform the history. Because there are a number of different histories (arabic, chinese, german, etc...) we would like to choose one and focus on it's individual the qualities and meaning.

We want to focus on the movement within the restriction of German Blackletter. Here, the characters are disciplined yet fluid and spontaneous (much like Rococo Architecture :) We also want to show the fragility and the importance of the paper. We're thinking Nuremberg, Germany...

noun

the art of writing beautifully: He studied calligraphy when he was a young man.

Fine Arts . line or a group of lines either derived from or-resembling letter forms and characterized by qualities usually associated with cursive writing,
especially that produced with a brush or pen.

Here's What We Have Looked @

Legacy of Letters from Luca Barcellona on Vimeo.

Calligraphy Pages Pt. 4/4 from Luca Barcellona on Vimeo.

Strategy

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:33:00 +0000

Where I am Going

I usually start a project or idea with irrational ambitions in mind (which is the best place, I think). In the design department, I have learned the value of planning and setting achievable goals. This applies to my pursuit of a job post kcai. Yes, I am willing to move almost anywhere, but Kansas City has its perks. I can see myself fitting in many places doing a number of different things. To help narrow down my options, I have to focus on things that are actually important to me as well as something that I feel will sustain me long-term, although it is difficult to tell exactly what that is right now. These include; flexibility in form, resources to pursue innovative ideas, an amicable environment, and a concern for social and environmental "good." It is extremely critical that the work I am doing is not lacking in purpose or overall meaning. Based on my interests during school, I am pursuing work in three different fields that provide a place for graphic designers; architecture firms, small branding/identity studios, and non-profits.

How Will I Get There?

Good question. I will start through obviously methods; perfecting my portfolio, producing a solid website, and engineering my resume. I need to make sure I show work that is diverse enough to be thrilling, but tailored enough to fit the position I am applying for. But this doesn't make me indispensable to future employers...

In addition to this, my strategy to achieve my career goals will require active use of my resources. This includes asking questions and opinions of designers and design-enablers that I have been put in contact with in the community. Internships have been a great way of finding answers to my questions and concerns about the field, but have also proven to be a great asset at meeting new people (i.e. that devious word, networking). Over the past year, I set up a few informational interviews with various designers in the area that I had previously been put in contact with. This allowed me to question their company to try and understand where I fit best. These have been and will continue to be helpful as I narrow down my goals for the future. Of course, this is a form of research which is probably the most important step I am taking towards finding my puzzle piece employer. At this point, I have gathered a list of future employers that fit most/some of my criteria both in Kansas City and a few other choice locations. My next few steps involve active pursuit of them. This will happen not by applying, but proving.

Degree Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:27:00 +0000

Degree Presentation

Lingolink

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:44:00 +0000

Crossroads Brand Book

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 22:28:00 +0000

Crossroads by Bethany Ediger | Make Your Own Book

Ivanhoe Prototyping Progress Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Ivanhoe Prototyping from Kelsey Anderson on Vimeo.

Reading Response: Screenspace

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 11:56:00 +0000

The computer is a tool, entertainment, and portal that represents space. Defining this space requires giving the user a chance to see, feel and discover a place that has the ability to mirror "domestic truths" such as shelter, warmth, personality, and even senses like smell. It is a myth that the space on screen is flat. The user will always prove to be an unpredictable audience. This must be accounted for by addressing what is both surrounding and inside the technology which make up the journey of moving through information and interactive environments. This definition of uncharted, customizable space brings a new set of boundaries that are constantly changing in response to new technologies, economy and the user. The challenge for the designer is to claim, react, and shape this new territory by thinking beyond these.

Foreign Language Learning: Design Process Scenarios 1-2

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:48:00 +0000

Hub:

Virtual Chalkboard:

Rebrand: Process [a]

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:15:00 +0000

Language Learning: Process

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:44:00 +0000

MX: 3D Sketching

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 20:10:00 +0000

#1 is modeled after the idea of immersion across screens. The back dots represent the teachers/facilitators of the classroom, backing up the students and teaching them. The other dots represent the other classmates in the room that are also learning a foreign language. The yellow dot at the top of the model is the end goal, to learn a foreign language, and the bright idea when the student's succeed at learning. The purple dots represent the ideas being formed and learning taking place throughout the experience.
#2 shows the process of logging into the program. The first login page leads the user to choose between teacher or parent and meet together (in the end) with one particular student's information page (the large marshmallow). The three smaller marshmallows show the student's progress through date, game and score.

#3 visualizes the simulation of immersion that our program tries to achieve. The two balloons show the two students connected (yellow pipe cleaners) and the curly ribbon shows their communication back and forth. The light, mesh fabric between them shows that there is still a barrier between them (the "screen") but it is gradually disappearing as they continue to learn together.

After choosing an idea to visualize, it was a lot of fun to try and use the available materials to explore how the language program will work. After the first one, I began to understand the exercise and was able to make make some interesting discoveries. Specifically, the structure of how the American classroom with the Spanish classroom and showing how their collaborative communication has one end goal.

Rebrand Phase 2

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:10:00 +0000

The Crossroads is home to an energetic community that values self-expression. Each of the three directions for the rebrand attempts to bring these characteristics into a system that can be used to identify the neighborhood. This targets new visitors to the area as well as establishing a firm sense of community and pride among the current business owners and residents. I have kept the name "Crossroads" in all three directions and added "Crossroads District" to the second system.

[Bethany] Phase 2

(I tried other methods of altering the typeface but I did not feel like they were as strong as the other options I put into my presentation)

Ivanhoe: Process + Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 21:05:00 +0000

Walter May Interview:

We began the informal meeting with Walter May by reviewing our project idea with him and telling him a little more about what we had in mind for the empty lots in Ivanhoe. Dina Newman also sat in on the meeting.

Questions we asked:
What lots would be available and safe for setup?
How many total lots does the Ivanhoe Foundation own?
Is there a map we could get a hold of?
Which block leaders would be available and want to get involved?
Do you have lawn equipment we could use to clean up the chosen lot for the prototype?
Is there any organization in particular that we should get involved with?

What We Found Out:
The Ivanhoe Foundation owns most of the empty lots on Woodlawn and many in back of the center on Highland St. It is difficult to get past the loitering issue in using the empty lots. That’s why basketball courts aren’t put up. They have a project going on right now with a local artist, “Shane” who works on “Ugly Houses” by putting art on the boarded up buildings using painters and graffiti artists. There is one at 31st and Holmes. There would be a lot available for us to use at 3703 Highland St., which is right behind the Nutter-Ivanhoe Center. The organization is tearing down the house beside the lot as well as taking down the chain-link fence that surrounds it. This demolition should happen within the month. This lot would be safe for us to use for setup and prototyping. We have their permission to use it for the project just as long as we let the foundation know when we will be there so that they know it isn’t someone “dumping” on it. We considered using the wood from the house being torn down next to the lot, but Walter told us that all of the good wood from the houses is given to Habitat for Humanity and the rest is demolished. He also put us in contact with Douglas Bowl who keeps maps of Ivanhoe. He ensured us that Douglas would have detailed information on every part of Ivanhoe, including a map of specific blocks (information we would like to use in the project). Also, we learned the block leader for our given lot is Pam Sweeney and we were also given contact information to speak with her about helping out or becoming more acquainted with the neighborhood.

We met with Lee Griggs from the sculpture department at KCAI to talk about building our objects to put in the lots. Although he said he could not help us out this semester, he did give us a few more people to contact at KCAI as well as some locations we could find and re-purpose materials (i.e. KC Steel, Asners Junk Yard, Liberty Wood, Make in Wesport, or using old wooden palettes). This step did not necessarily help with the interest in collaboration so we are continuing to look on craigslist for objects we could use in our prototype.

From here, our plan is to pursue the new contacts and prepare for an actual prototype. This means construction and planning of the lot objects. In addition to that, we have begun designing a new map, survey for residents of the area, as well as sketching out our prototype ideas.

What we are looking at:

Sketches via Kelsey!

Questions for Local Residents of Lot:

Plan for the Past Week 9/26-9/30

Things to be Accomplished:
Sketches
Secondary Research
Survey
Rent video camera to document process/setup
Yolanda—talk about girl scouts
Vector map
Pick location and photograph “before”
Meet and discuss lots with Walter May
Continue framing pesentation

Collaborate:
Sculpture Department
Urban Youth Center
Churches

Planned Prototype:
Grill
Benches
Picnic Table

Reading Response: Windows & Mirrors Intro + 2

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 21:09:00 +0000

"Digital art shows that the computer is not becoming invisible in our culture," it is becoming more prominent, growing and expanding to different forms! The introduction overviews thestructuralists movement where form and content were separate. For the designer, computerswere a new world and that later connected those two variables and allow the user to access the content through form. It says that the computer screen is both a window and a mirror. It allows the user to play in natural movement, reflecting the natural world, and gain new information. Designers create transparency that gives the illusion of the physical world. Typography asks the viewer to read the content and not look at the page and web design should do the same. This requires removing obscure elements (modernist design goals). This could now be recognized through the term, useable, that creates a consistent experience (GUI). Creating a user illusion is important to the experience and captures attention that is then directed towards the content or use which is the overarching goal. This transparency could be described as a myth (exaggeration or simplification with an origin of a "complex reality"). Techniques include three dimensions and immersion through virtual realities. Could technology disappear and put the user in touch with reality or does the user need to understand that it is a system also?

Foreign Language Learning: Branding Directions + Copywriting Begininngs + Wireframes

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Brand Directions:

Wireframes + Setup

Naming Ideas:

Lingo birds

language link

culture friends

speech buds

foreign friends

language link

jibbers

culture talk

buzz pal
buzzwords

word bird

word worm

bird talk

culture talk

language weave

speech knot

lingo link

lingo knot

tongue twister

talk knot

tyketalk

culture chat

language ties

speech ties

tackle

culturerig

lingorig

parallel

parallel pals

besties

told

culture current

boost

communisay

speech bump

lingo jump

language build

Foreign Language Learning: Digital Wireframes 01

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 02:44:00 +0000

Wireframe Proposal

Ivanhoe: Initial Proposal

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany Ediger) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 22:05:00 +0000

A few of us from Visual Advocacy volunteered at the P.A.C.E. event on Saturday and got to hang out with kids, play games and get to know the community in a different way. This was a great opportunity to think about how we are framing our projects.

Initial Ivanhoe Proposal

Bethany Ediger

Practical Schematic Design

KCAI Way-finding: Concept 01

Mod+Modern

Architecture + Hair Process

Senior Show Concept Presentation

Poetic Monument: Ausdauer

Calligraphy Monument: Fraktur 02

Calligraphy Monument: Fraktur

Poetic: Defining Idea

cal·lig·ra·phy

Strategy

Degree Presentation

Lingolink

Crossroads Brand Book

Ivanhoe Prototyping Progress Presentation

Reading Response: Screenspace

Foreign Language Learning: Design Process Scenarios 1-2

Rebrand: Process [a]

Language Learning: Process

MX: 3D Sketching

Rebrand Phase 2

Ivanhoe: Process + Interview

Reading Response: Windows & Mirrors Intro + 2

Foreign Language Learning: Branding Directions + Copywriting Begininngs + Wireframes

Foreign Language Learning: Digital Wireframes 01

Ivanhoe: Initial Proposal