Project 1: Self-Portrait

 Aidel Ivo Johan bin Mohamad Ismail / (0360349)

Bachelors of Design in Creative Media / Design Principles / Taylor's Lakeside University

Project 1: Self-Portrait

About me:

I am a person with many interests and experiences. I have worked as a clothing model, representing fashion and style. I have also been a student ambassador, speaking up for my fellow students and organizing events. Beyond that, I love to travel and go hiking, discovering new places and cultures that make our world beautiful.

I have a few personal qualities that define me. I like to be efficient and get things done in the best way possible. I stay calm and composed in difficult situations, making wise choices. Even though I am quiet, I express my creativity through my work, playing games, and creating art. These passions make me who I am and shape my life's adventures.

Mind Map

Figure 1.1

Visual References

Portrait by Wagner Chrissante

Figure 1.2.1

Sasha by Kuvshinov Ilya

Figure 1.2.2

Portrait by vertesouris

Figure 1.2.3

For the self-portrait I will be working on, I've taken inspiration from the futuristic and edgy world of cyberpunk. Drawing upon the works of talented artists such as Wagner Chrissante, Kuvshinov Ilya (known for their illustration of Sasha), and Vertesouris (known for their captivating portraits), I've created a visual representation that showcases the essence of this captivating genre. 

By incorporating cyberpunk elements into my self-portrait, I aim to convey a sense of futuristic aesthetics, technological advancements, and a touch of rebellious spirit. Through the interplay of vibrant colors, sharp lines, and dynamic compositions, I hope to capture the essence of cyberpunk and showcase my unique artistic vision.

I have chosen this style of art because I would like to express my interests in cyber augmentation and also the cyberpunk style as it has been an interest of mine since I was at a younger age. With my experience and understanding, I would like to see how I am able to incorporate this particular style into my own self-portrait, along with the design principle I have selected for an attempt at my own self-portrait.

Design Principle

For my main design principle, I will be using the principle of Emphasis

My Photo

The following image was taken by a photographer from an event which I had planned in my university prior to joining Taylor's University. The image had been altered and edited and it will be used as one of the subject poses of my portrait. Though not finalised, will be used as a sketch for development purposes.

Figure 1.3

Development

I started with a sketch, but it didn't turn out the way I wanted. It didn't match the vision I had in mind. So, I made the decision to change my sketch around to another style.

Figure 1.4.1

I chose a different sketch as the foundation for my artwork. It felt more in line with what I wanted to create. With each line, I carefully built the composition, making sure every part expressed the right message and feeling. This new sketch became the design I ended up choosing to work with for a sketch.

Figure 1.4.2

Further Development/Title: Augmented Mirage: Embracing the Cyberpunk Persona

In my self-portrait, I have utilized the design principle of emphasis to bring attention to a key element that infuses a captivating cyberpunk essence. The augmented mask takes center stage, serving as a visual focal point that embodies the futuristic spirit of the cyberpunk genre. Through strategic use of color, shading, and composition, I have accentuated the details and presence of the mask, making it immediately captivating to viewers.

Figure 1.5.1

By employing contrasting colors and luminosity, within the composition, the augmented mask stands out from the rest of the portrait. This emphasis technique adds a cyberpunk element while symbolizing the fusion of technology and identity. It sparks contemplation about the influence of technology in our lives and the potential future directions of human existence.

Figure 1.5.2

Though not finalized, the current design serves as a form of progress to show where I stand with my design. More may be added towards the design to symbolize the technology and the influence of cyberpunk incorporation in the development of the self-portrait. 

Final Design

With input given from my lecturer I decided to make some final adjustments and through my final adjustments I had changed a few things. Some of them to name are the color of the background, the clothing and the portrait orientation. Through the input I had received I had acquired an idea of what I had originally wanted to complete with additional tweaks and quite the valuable outlook on the matter. 

Figure 2.0

I had implemented elements of typography into my portrait as it also follows the essence captured in cyberpunk posters. And for the background I had chosen to make it a gradient background as a sort of homage to the vaporwave theme to accentuate the cyberpunk essence of my self-portrait. And noticeable changes appear on the suit as it has slightly visible recolors.