Illustration & Visual Narrative Task1:Exercises Continuous

 

NAME: Zhou Xinyi

I.D: 0378623

GROUP: G5

Task 1:Exercises Continuous

LISTS

1.Lectures

2.Instructions

3.Task1:Exercises Continuous

4.Reflection

1.Lectures

1.1 Week 1
In this week’s tutorial, Mr. Hafiz introduced us to Adobe Illustrator, focusing on the differences between raster and vector graphics. Raster images, made up of pixels, can become blurry when resized, while vector images use mathematical paths and can be scaled without losing quality. He also explained the importance of managing file links when importing assets into Illustrator, emphasizing how to embed files to avoid missing links. We were introduced to common Illustrator file formats such as AI (native format), PDF (for viewing across platforms), and EPS (for compatibility with layout software). To help us get comfortable with the Pen Tool, Mr. Hafiz assigned the Bezier game, allowing us to practice creating precise curves and shapes.

1.2 Week 2
There was no lecture this week due to the Labour Day holiday.

1.3 Week 3
This week, Mr. Hafiz provided AI-generated images from ChatGPT for us to trace using the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator, helping us improve our precision and control. We reviewed key shortcuts such as pressing P to activate the Pen Tool and click-drag for curves, V to switch to the Selection Tool, and Enter to close or end a path.

Mr. Hafiz also shared helpful workflow tips—rather than drawing perfect lines from the start, we can overlap basic shapes and refine them later using the Shape Builder Tool (Shift+M). Holding Alt allows us to remove unwanted paths efficiently during this process.

1.4 Week 4
In this session, we explored coloring techniques in Adobe Illustrator. Tools covered included the Live Paint Tool, Shape Builder, Pathfinder, and the use of color schemes. With the Live Paint Tool (K), we practiced color filling by first preparing the contour layer: duplicating and locking it, removing strokes, converting paths, and placing the original outline above for reference. We then used the tool to fill in colors efficiently.

For adding depth, we created shadows and highlights with the Pen Tool and layered color fills to achieve dimensional effects.
Additionally, Mr. Hafiz introduced character design basics—encouraging us to build characters from geometric shapes that reflect their personality and make them more recognizable.

1.5 Week 5
This week, we explored the concept of chiaroscuro, an artistic technique that uses the contrast of light and shadow to create a sense of depth and three-dimensional form on a flat surface. The term comes from Italian, meaning “light” (chiaro) and “dark” (oscuro). Commonly used in painting, chiaroscuro helps define the volume and structure of objects or figures by emphasizing tonal differences, enhancing realism and visual impact.

2.Instructions

3.Task1:Exercises Continuous

work1

3.1 .First, use ChatGPT to create a rough sketch of the character appearance I need.

3.2.I use ChatGPT to create some cartoon characters for me. Then I put them in AI software and draw them with a pen and color it.

3.3.work as follows：

3.4.Final presentation：

4.Reflection

Reflection
This task allowed me to deepen my understanding of the creative process while significantly improving my Adobe Illustrator skills. Although I already had some basic knowledge of the software, Mr. Hafiz’s detailed explanations of various tools and techniques helped me enhance my proficiency noticeably.

From drafting the initial outlines to adding final highlights and shadows, each step pushed me to work more efficiently. Despite experiencing several software crashes along the way, the process ultimately strengthened my patience and problem-solving ability.