Tokyo — Mt. Fuji Poster — Design Study

The poster was created using tracing paper layers (slide 6). A full-size tracing paper sketch along with the individually sketched components allowed for conceptual/composite compositional experimentation similar to using layers in computer software. This method was used to determine the scale of the mountain along with the typographical elements. Rough conceptual sketches can be seen in slide 9.

Next, the sketch with leaf border and typography combined was transferred. Then, the mountain illustration was traced on a separate piece of paper and layered under the full-sized sketch to try compositional placement combinations. Once the scale and position angle was determined, the graphite outlines were transferred to the actual poster to act as the under drawing by rubbing and applying pressure to the sketch (slide 6, green & blue pencil). The process was repeated for typographical elements.

Once all compositional elements of the composite graphite sketch (slide 6) were transferred to the main piece and refined, the entire under-drawing was hand-inked and sealed with acrylic matte medium. Next, the areas of color were applied—leaves & mountain landscape (watercolor)—then sealed with matte medium after each area was completed. Then, a final layer of acrylic matte medium was added to the entire piece. The time-lapse animation (slide 5) shows the entire process in steps.

Matte medium was applied to seal each area to allow for greater experimentation, blending transparent textures with depth and layering of color within the piece. The matte medium created an "analog" undo if needed. The color layers could be wiped off and redone as well as built up in layers. The time-lapse animation (slide 5) shows the use of the matte medium layers throughout the creative process.