OUGD406 - Secret 7 - Final Resolution for Submission (Evaluation)

Above is the final resolution I have submitted into the Secret 7 competition. The concept is concerned with two overlapping circles creating a centralised ellipse, in which there is a blue eye. This design makes reference to not only the track name, 'clearest blue,' but also the album name 'Every Open Eye.' Connections are established through colour, imagery and song lyrics. The eye represents the act of being able to see clearly, whilst the interconnected circles play on the lyrics 'shaped by the clearest blue' through the presence of circles - which also subtly links back to the geometric visual identity used by the band in their artwork and promotional material. Other lyrics informing the design include 'caught inside' as the eye sits within the space created by the overlapped circles, which also address the notion of 'meeting halfway.'

The resolution's foundation is a 7x7" CMYK colour mode digital canvas, as to adhere to the Secret 7 brief requirements and ensure featured colours are eligible for accurate reproduction in print if selected to be featured in this years exhibition.

I constructed the concept one resolution using circles to form and develop the design. The overlapping sector is removed from two circles, leaving a pointed-ellipse shape reminiscent of
the typical framing of the eye from the lids, creating space in which the blue eye sits centrally as
the focus point of the composition and visual information as a whole.

The painted eye featured within the design holds the gaze as a result of its captivating realism, making for a more engaging design. As a result of the range of tones/shades present within the eye, both circular forms that surround the eye are cohesively made complimentary to the design as a whole, bringing the individual visual information together as one via consistent use of hue. Colours used to produce the eye include Phthalo Blue, Prussian Blue, Ultramarine, Cobalt Blue and Cerulean Blue, as well as mixed variations to provide a plethora of tones and shades that would allow me to effectively portray the fine detail of an eye and achieve depth. I also used various brush weights and sizes to create differentiating textures/qualities of line.

The mono-printed circles that encapsulate the eye are a carefully selected tonal combination that 

bear strong contrast and tonal quality whilst providing texture that enhances the hand-produced illusion/aesthetic. This additional texture supplies more visual character and printed-quality 

which ultimately makes for a more effective, skilful resolution.

All of the above visual information is set on light grey ground which makes for an ultimately more harmonious resolution due to the tonal consistency. This also ensures the gaze remains focused the the centre of the design, the eye, as this is where the white, lightest sector of the piece is featured; Eyes are always drawn to the lightest part of any given composition.

Feedback received on the design cites that the resolution successfully and effectively reflects the track via colour, concept and simplicity.