LT 3.1
Your task is to research some influential street artists and learn more about who they are, what they do, how they do it and why they do it. Then, choose a specific street artist who made a conscience provoking message go viral through their art — this might refer to one or several pieces of their art.
You need to write about the following aspects of the street artist. Aim for 350 words, visual examples and references must be included:
- Background. How did they get started and make a name for themselves? What inspired them to take their art to the streets.
- Speak about their artistic style/execution and the mediums they put their art on, e.g. buildings, pavements etc.
- Give your opinion about the art piece/s that conveyed the conscience provoking message.
- Speak about the impact it made. Did the artist achieve the goal they set out to accomplish through their street art?
Banksy is the most known graffiti and street artist we have in today’s age. He is a mystery and not much is known of him or his background. I think a lot of people are drawn to Banksy of this reason too. Banksy is a mystery and people like mystery, which makes it easier for Banksy to share their messages and art all around the world.
Background Banksy: Banksy is an anonymous street art that is theorized to be born in Bristol, England. However, this is not confirmed, he is also theorized to be born in the 70’s but again this is not confirmed. Very little is known about Banksy and his background. He first came to notice as a freehand graffiti artist in 1993 and is known for his anti-authority style.
Banksy is most notable for the girl with balloon graffiti, and he has his own style developed his own style using distinctive iconography of highly recognizable images. He uses stencils to enhance his speed.
Banksy art wakes a whole new feeling of rebellion. He is anti-authority, and this can clearly be viewed in his art. All his artwork carries a message whether its policemen talking to rats, the girl with balloon canvas that shredded itself etc. Banksy communicates their message clearly, and the audience can easily read the meaning behind it.
Banksy has reached world wide recognition for his street art, he has also gained a big following which helps his messages come across to the population.
LT 3.2
Of the many tools the designer has at their disposal, the tools of visual styles and the effective application thereof are paramount. Whether designers craft by hand or computer, the physical tools merely aid them in executing their ideas. In other words, concept and style are more important than the physical tools that are used. What we mean by this is not that the execution can be slack when the concept is strong, but that the style and execution should express the concept at its best. Consider the visual overview we have taken on the use of strong and bold graphic design and how this is used to communicate a message with a conscience.
- Design an A4 poster for a humanitarian cause you feel passionate about. For example, creating awareness and a call for action against animal cruelty. You must apply pastiche to your design. Use a style of propaganda used during the Modernism era and create your own unique design in a contemporary context.
- Start by creating at least five thumbnails for your design. These thumbnails should be handed in with your assignment.
- Write a rationale or explanation for your poster of at least 350 words about why it is necessary to create awareness of the humanitarian cause you have chosen and how your design will help achieve this.
- Explain your creative execution, be sure to mention the use of colour and graphics as well as typography.
- Give examples of the designs you used as inspiration and why they are applicable to your design.
LT 3.3

What fundamentals are used successfully? Describe what you think is the most successful aspect of the illustration (remember to focus on the fundamentals).
My first impression when I look at the illustration, I get the feeling of a busy life lived trough social media and social events, travel, and experiences. This poster gives off a happy vibe and gives off a very fun colourful appearance with the different shapes, colours, and business.
Which style from the past is being used in a new way in this illustration? If no previous style is clearly apparent, does it use some form of pastiche? Why do you think this specific style or pastiche was used? Describe whether you think it was used successfully or not.
It uses a mix of psychedelic colours as well as pop art.
If you had to create this illustration, what would you think about first? (This is before you start designing it on a computer.)
- Colour (What would your approach to colour be?)
- Line (What would you like to portray with the use of line?)
- Composition (What would you wish to instil in the viewer using composition alone?)
I would start with finding colour and shape inspiration, then I would go to composition and look to the real world for further inspiration.
LT 3.4
Design a book cover for a thriller book called “Till Death do us Art” by Ruth Star. This book does not exist, so you can use your imagination regarding the subject matter.
- It must be designed by clearly drawing inspiration from a previous design style.
- The size of the cover must be A5 and it should include a front, spine and back.
- The cover must contain a simple vector illustration that forms the basis of the design.
- The cover must contain the title and the name of the author.