TWC 511 - Principles of Visual Communication
For this last project, I was assigned to create an informed space of my choosing that would focus on interactive design, visual communication, and analyzed information for a public audience. In this case, I chose to create a historical space for our local visitor’s center in Chinle, AZ. The space would contain historical information about the Navajo People, the land of Canyon de Chelly, and the history of our culture over the years of our practice in culture. Since I am working with historical information and visual integrations (e.g. photographs, paintings, etc.). I designed the space based upon the years of photographs collected of the Navajo People with an emphasis in ordering images according to year, including descriptions of what is taking place in the images, and any historical significance the image may have in connection to our people’s culture. In developing this space, I started my direction of visual communication by sketching an idea of what the space would look like.
THE VISUAL SPACE
THE PROCESS
In conceptualizing a visual space, it was critical to consider the presentation of archival documents and the conveyance of information about the images through an interactive device, such as a kiosk. This approach to visual communication leveraged technology to enhance the use of interactive devices, broadening the informational scope for audiences beyond the local residents. The design, integration, and placement of an interactive device for each photograph aimed to provide visitors with the opportunity to delve deeper into our history, learning about the era in which each photo was captured. While each photograph is paired with its interactive device, the introductory kiosk at the gallery's entrance is a strategic element designed to extend the dissemination of knowledge and information past the confines of the visual space.
THE RESULT
The project employed critical thinking, analysis, and research to effectively communicate visually, extending its reach beyond the Chinle community. Additionally, it incorporated technology to enhance communication and show how information can be self-sustaining when paired with visually compelling elements like historical photographs. Other practices included flexible designing and drafting to communicate through verbal and visual language for all audience members of the facility.
