Week 5: Visual Writing - Written Communication
Lecture:
I found this week's lecture presented by Stuart Tolley to be very interesting. Here is my reflection on it:
The lecture explores the evolution and contemporary significance of written communication in graphic design. It traces the roots of this interrelationship through revolutionary periods like Futurism and Vorticism. Furthermore, the lecture showcases contemporary graphic designers who write, such as Adrian Shaughnessy and Craig Oldham, emphasising their contributions to design literature and social commentary. Overall, it underscores the dynamic intersection of design, culture, and social issues throughout history and into the present day.
Research Task:
The task I have chosen for this week's challenge is a book written by ex-SAS Operator Christian Craighead and illustrated by ex-US Army Soldier Chris Klein called "The Wrong Wolf." Whilst this book initially comes across as a children’s book due to its colourful illustrations, its story is for all ages. The story is about a wolf that becomes a sheepdog, wanting to change his ways; instead of being a predator, he becomes a protector.
“The book was inspired by episodes in my life and was written by me, from the heart. Whilst principally a children's book, it sends a positive message that will resonate with both the young and old.” (Craighead, C. 2023)
I find the tone of voice, combined with the illustrations produced by Matthew Klein, to be incredibly engaging for the viewer. Although it has a very dark, spooky, reminiscent colour, this, combined with the words of the story, has the ability to really captivate the reader's attention and bring them into the world of the story and the life of this lone wolf, hoping to inspire or potentially help someone suffering in a similar scenario, whether that be bullying, for instance.
References:
• Craighead, C. (2023) Chris Craighead MBE CGC on Instagram. Available at: https://www.instagram.com/christian_craighead/p/Cylw3yCrhha/?hl=en&img_index=1 (Accessed: 07 April 2024).
