Weather Report from Elissa Stanton on Vimeo.

These three design pieces each highlight different strengths and areas of growth I have observed in my work. The cognitive map shows that I am able to organize complex information in a visually interesting and informative way. I was able to break down a complex though process into an approachable flowchart of information that can be used by others as well. Additionally, I impressed myself with my ability to draw so many variations of hairstyles in illustrator. Through this process I learned a lot about accepting critique and using it to better my work. I think the feedback I got from my peers helped me understand how sometimes other people interpreted my design differently that I might.

My button projects shows my ability to use different mediums to design. This is an area I enjoyed exploring and would like to explore more. I was able to incorporate photos and vector elements into my button design and transfer them from the computer to an actual pin. I also used a more non-tradition method in my packaging design, which stretched my personal concept of design. I learned that integrating multiple different mediums can create more interesting work.

Lastly, my weather video shows my ability to learn new tools quickly and use motion to create more meaningful design. I jumped into After Effects and stuck with it, even though it was confusing at times. Was able to imagine motion in my mind and bring it to life on the screen. While designing a lengthy motion piece was a huge challenge and my video could have been more complex, I was pleased with the final product and my design aesthetic choices. Overall, I feel that these projects represent huge steps I have taken as a designer. I know I still have a lot to learn and a lot to practice, but I have see my technical and cognitive design abilities grow significantly over time.