concept•1550s, from M.L. conceptum "draft, abstract," in L. "(a thing) conceived,"
design•1540s, from L. designare "mark out, devise," from de- "out" + signare "to mark," from signum "a mark, sign."
The illustration featured above was created by George Lucas in November of 1974* as a way of illustrating to artist Ralph McQuarrie the formal qualities he desired in the universe of Star Wars. In this simple sketch are some of the most iconic designs of the film saga that would later be translated across countless different media.
This simple doodle is a perfect example of the visual immediacy great concept design should possess. This is not to undermine the extraordinary contributions McQuarrie made to the visual aesthetic of the Star Wars universe or in any way minimize his abilities as a designer. However, the lesson here is that concept art is not about rendering or style, but about the manifestation and communication of ideas.
There is a reason why the Star Wars universe can both communicate with adults and be depicted in crayon by young children. The wholeness of great design can be understood easily, assimilated instantly, and retransmitted persuasively.
*J. W. Rinzler, “The Making of Star Wars” New York: Ballantine Books, 2007
now Shanth, in the Illustration classes you taught me,(wish there were many more) there was nothing more important to you then "rendering". Where did this come from I wonder? it is interesting to see! I take it that you have begun to add in "simplification" more so then ever. This I am learning faster then ever.
ReplyDeleteJeremiah!
ReplyDeleteGreat to see you here! DRAFTSMANSHIP not rendering. Clarity and precision are important (obviously), but remember that you had me in one of the intro to Illustration Sophomore classes where we focus on technique and clarity for communication(Composition, Value, Hue, Draftsmanship). Unfortunately, I think I had stopped teaching my advanced classes at Montserrat at that point. I wish you could have taken one my advanced classes, because Illustration 2 is largely exposing you guys to materials (which you were great at).
I'm so glad you will be following this blog because I will be covering a lot of the materials that I cover in lectures and my storytelling classes for Seniors and Juniors on this web log.
I will always remember that you completed more work for me outside of class when I didn't have you as a student than most students did inside of class. You are the definition of work horse my friend, and it's great to have you here!