Week 2 & 3 Program Major : GRAPHIC DESIGN

About this class

This is a major course for the Summer Art and Design Program 2025 This course cannot be taken separately.

This program will introduce students to different methods of visual communication through graphic design. The course will cover how graphic design can be used as a manner of expression through image-making, typography, and illustrations. We will introduce students to basic tools on Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop to incorporate this skill set in the class project. Students will be provided with a phrase/word to translate visually using graphic design as a tool. They will explore the fundamental concepts associated with graphic design by combining analog and digital mediums through scans, drawings, sketches, collages, photographs, and typography.

In this program, students will learn to incorporate research, illustrations, and other graphics to complete the project. They will gain a basic understanding of layout, composition, color theories, and develop simple concepts on the assigned project. Students will gain experience in developing skills with tools, materials, and methods for creating visuals. This course will help students in developing visuals, building technical skills, and enhancing creative thinking. Lastly, the program will conclude with a critique, for the students to present the concept and outcome of their projects individually to the class for a discussion.

Class Outline

Class 1: Introduction

Class 2: Design Basics

Class 3: Basic introduction to typography, color, images, and layouts.

Class 4: Introducing photoshop.

Class 5: Continue practicing Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator

Class 6: Student presentation of research (mood board)

Class 7: Understanding the creative process.

Class 8: Students will share their progress.

Class 9: Presentation on how to demonstrate work professionally.

Class 10: 5 min presentation of the final project

Materials needed

Please note: 

VCUarts Qatar reserves the right to cancel classes if there are not enough participants registered. Already paid fees will be refunded. 

Please do not purchase materials until you receive a final confirmation email. .

Items to buy for this class.

Foundation class materials will be used for Graphic Design Major. The instructor will email regarding the software prior to the class start date. 

On occasions, there may be additional materials to be purchased, and if so,it will be advised by the instructor.

Where to buy your materials

Most of the materials are available from any art supply shop, for example:

• Cass Art (Fire station)
• Jarir Bookstore: on Rayyan Road or Salwa Road
• Color Note: on Al Nasser Street
• Ibn Al Qayyim: at Markhiya Roundabout
• Al Rawnaq

Schedule

Start: Sun, July 19, 2026
End: Thu, July 30, 2026
Lessons: 10
Days: Sunday – Thursday
Time: 10 am to 1 pm
Location: VCUarts Qatar Campus

Instructors

Destarte Prieto

Destarte Prieto is a multidisciplinary designer with expertise spanning graphic design, product design, video, and research. With a strong passion for experimentation and exploring new creative techniques, Destarte thrives on pushing the boundaries of design. Holding an advanced degree in design, her thesis centered on sustainable material innovation, reimagining waste materials into meaningful applications.

Currently, Destarte contributes to the academic community as a teaching assistant, supporting students in their creative growth and exploration. Her work emphasizes the intersection of design, fabrication techniques, and research, aiming to inspire others to see the untapped potential in the world around them.