My Graphic Design Journey

The Simple Art of Cartooning: A Fun Drawing Exercise Introduction   Have you ever thought, "I can't draw"? If so, you're not alone! Many people believe that drawing requires natural talent or years of training. However, a recent exercise in my digital illustration course at Keiser University demonstrated otherwise. The goal was simple: create six cartoon characters using only basic shapes. The results? A reminder that anyone can draw with a bit of creativity and the right approach! The Exercise: Breaking Down Complex Forms   In this exercise, we were encouraged to break characters down into simple shapes—circles, ovals, and lines—allowing us to focus on expression and personality rather than technical perfection. By using exaggerated features such as large eyes, unique noses, and different mouth shapes, we brought our characters to life in a fun and approachable way. What I Learned Expression Over Perfection – The charm of a cartoon character lies in its expressi...

I ntroduction There’s something magical about elephants. They are grand, majestic, and wise — embodying strength and gentleness all at once. I’ve always felt a connection to them, and in our recent conversation, we imagined the life of a young circus elephant named Kavi. This imagination exercise, inspired by Exercise 14 in Regina Pacelli’s book  Whole Lotta Creativity Going On , became a journey of reflection on identity, resilience, and finding our place in the world. The World of Kavi Kavi is a five-year-old circus elephant, born into captivity and raised under the colorful canopy of a traveling circus. His days are a mix of wonder and longing. The applause of the crowd and the bright lights bring fleeting moments of joy, but there’s a yearning within him for something more. His mother, a wise matriarch in the same circus, tells him stories of the wild—vast plains, endless rivers, and the freedom to roam. These stories stir something deep in Kavi, a longing for a world he’s neve...

  The Art of Transformation: Exploring Size and Scale in Tattoos Through a Personal Journey When it comes to tattoos, size and scale are much more than technical considerations—they’re the heart of a design’s impact, emotion, and meaning. This was especially evident during a recent brainstorming session where the focus was on transforming a blacked-out geometric heart tattoo into a complete and cohesive back piece. The journey provided valuable insights into size, scale, and how tattoos can tell powerful, personal stories. Understanding Size and Scale in Tattoo Design In tattoo artistry, size refers to the physical dimensions of the tattoo, while scale relates to how elements within the design interact and balance with one another. When designing for large spaces, like a back or a sleeve, these elements must work harmoniously with the canvas—the human body. Every curve, joint, and movement plays a role in how a tattoo is perceived and how it ages over time. For example, a l...