LESSON CONTENT: U2 O2

WHAT ARE ICONS?

Let's dive into the world of icons – those little visual nuggets that pack a big punch in design. But first, what exactly is an icon?

Dictionary Definitions:

1. A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration.

2. A sign or representation that stands for its object by virtue of a resemblance or analogy to it.

3. (In computing and graphic design) A small pictogram or image representing a program, file, or function on a computer screen or mobile device.

In graphic design, we're mostly concerned with that last definition. Icons are simplified visual representations of objects, actions, or ideas. They're the visual shorthand that helps users quickly understand and navigate interfaces, products, and information.

Icons vs. Visual Language: While icons are a part of visual language, they're not the whole story. Think of it this way:

• Icons are like individual words in a sentence.

• Visual language is the entire grammar and vocabulary of visual communication.

Icons contribute to visual language, but visual language also includes colour schemes, typography, layout, and other design elements that work together to convey meaning and brand identity.

A brief history of computer icon design 

How Icons Are Established 

Icons become established through:

• Repetition and consistent use

• Cultural context and shared understanding

• Simplicity and clarity of design

• Ability to convey meaning quickly

• Adaptability across different mediums

Australian Icons with Distinctive Visual Language

These icons have become instantly recognizable symbols of Australia, each with its own unique visual language that extends beyond the icon itself into broader cultural significance.

Remember, great icons don't just look cool – they communicate effectively. As you start designing your own icons, think about how you can create simple, memorable visuals that speak volumes at a glance.

Icon Analysis

A History of Icons

• TASK: INDIGENOUS DESIGN CHARTER READING & ACTIVITY

•  Culturally appropriate design practices including protocols for the creation and commercial use of Indigenous knowledge.
  Australian Indigenous Design Charter and Protocols for Using First Nations Cultural and Intellectual Property in the Arts

• Read the section of the Indigenous Design Charter assigned. Glue in to highlight and annotate in your folio. 

• From your section, create an infographic or sticker summarizing a key point or points from your reading. Write 3-4 sentences providing an explanation.  Print & place in folio.
  
  
  

• TASK: FIRST NATIONS DESIGNER CASE STUDY

• Research and create a visual poster presentation on an Indigenous Australian designer of your choosing. As a class we will create a database of Indigenous and historically marginalised designers: Select an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander designer and analyse their work and practices in a short report with annotated images. 

• Submit digitally to Compass. Print a copy for the folio. Present findings to peers.
  
  
  
  
  

• TASK: CULTURAL APPROPRIATION REFLECTION

• Write a 500-word reflection on the importance of avoiding cultural appropriation in design.

• TASK: PERSONAL IDENTITY MIND MAP

• Create a detailed mind map exploring your personal identity, culture, and symbolism - 1 folio page
  
  
  
  

• TASK: PERSONAL ICON SET: SKETCHES

• Reflect on your mind map. 

• In a 10-minute sprint session, fill your page with quick sketches for potential personal icons - 1 folio page

• Circle 4-10 of these to incorporate into some draft icons for yourself. Divide the next page into 4 rectangles. Re-draw 4 of your selected symbols, you may wish to combine multiple symbols to create these symbols. 10 minutes per symbols.
  Change up your use of media for these 4 drawings to experiment with different colours, textures, line weights, etc.
  
  The Seven Principles of Icon Design

• Designing Icon Sets, a Masterclass

• Accessible Icon Design - A story of 3 icons
  
  
  

• TASK: DIGITAL REFINEMENT

• Create an A3 Illustrator Art Board in CMYK. Create a 10mm border. 

• From your design development, select and refine a set of 3-5 personal icons using Illustrator. 

• Print resolved designs. 

• Write a brief explanation of each icon's significance.
  
  
  
  
  

• TASK: FINAL PRESENTATION 

• Submit your A3 art board as a PDF to Compass. 

• Present personal icon set to the class, explaining the design process, cultural considerations, and personal significance

• CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE DESIGN PRACTICES:

• ETHICAL & LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF DESIGNERS: Ownership, intellectual property, copyright & patents. 

• History, practices and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Australian design identity.
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Extended Response: 

DESIGN SET OF PERSONAL ICONS Resource: