work in illustration, printmaking, packaging design, advertising or typography

Graphic communication is all about using images, text and design to send a message. Think of it as a visual conversation between you and the viewer. In this unit you’ll explore illustration, printmaking, packaging design, advertising and typography – each a different way to speak with pictures.

What is illustration? It’s drawing or painting that tells a story or explains an idea. Imagine a comic book – each panel is an illustration that moves the plot forward.

• Line work – clean, bold, or loose.
• Shading – light, shadow, and texture.
• Perspective – 1‑point, 2‑point, or 3‑point to create depth.
• Color – mood, contrast, and harmony.

⚡ Analogy: Illustration is like a movie trailer – it gives a quick glimpse of the story.

Printmaking lets you create multiple copies of the same image. Think of it as a “copy‑and‑paste” for art.

• Woodcut: Carve a block of wood, ink it, and press onto paper.
• Linocut: Similar to woodcut but uses linoleum – smoother cuts.
• Etching: Use acid to bite a metal plate, then print.
• Screen printing: Push ink through a stencil onto fabric or paper.

⚡ Analogy: Printmaking is like baking a cake – you mix ingredients (ink, paper, plate) and then press the batter (inked plate) onto the pan (paper).

Packaging design is the art of making a product look good and useful. It’s the first thing a shopper sees.

1. Define the product and its target audience.
2. Choose materials (cardboard, plastic, paper, etc.).
3. Create shape and structure that protects and attracts.
4. Add branding – logo, colours, fonts.
5. Consider sustainability – recyclable, minimal waste.

⚡ Analogy: Packaging is like a superhero costume – it protects the hero (product) and tells everyone who they are.

Advertising uses visual and textual elements to persuade people to buy or act.

• Headline: Grab attention.
• Copy: Short, clear, persuasive.
• Imagery: Supports the message.
• Call‑to‑Action: What you want the viewer to do.

⚡ Analogy: Advertising is like a conversation in a crowded room – you need a loud voice (headline) and a clear point.

Typography is the art of arranging type to make written language legible and appealing.

• Serif: Small strokes at the ends of letters – classic, formal.
• Sans‑serif: Clean, modern look.
• Script: Hand‑written style, elegant.
• Display: Bold, decorative, for headlines.

⚡ Analogy: Typography is like choosing the right voice for a story – each font has its own personality.