VICA Graphic Design Workshop

This year, twenty Hawaii high school students interested in graphic design careers will got first-hand mentoring from design professionals who are members of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), Honolulu Chapter.

The two-day workshop at Mililani High School is a community outreach collaboration between AIGA and the Skills USA/Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA). This is the second year AIGA members have volunteered to organize and run the workshop.

Students received a brief overview of design elements and principles, samples and case studies, followed by the assignment of creating a poster design that effectively communicates one of the following messages: Anti-smoking, anti-drinking, anti-drugs or anti-speeding (safe driving). They will be required to do sketches first before composing their artwork using graphic design software on the computer.

“Our goal is for the students to primarily learn more about design fundamentals and the design process,” said Bonnie Taam Sakai, president of AIGA, Honolulu Chapter. “Working with the VICA program at the schools is a nice way for the students to get the technical skills, vocational exposure and guidance they need to choose the best path for a career in Graphic Design” she said.

High schools participating in the 2004 workshop are: Aiea, McKinley, Mililani, Radford, and King Kekaulike on Maui. The student's work was also displayed at various venues throughout the state.

The purpose of AIGA is to further excellence in communication design as a broadly defi ned discipline, strategic tool for business and cultural force. AIGA is the place design professionals turn to fi rst exchange ideas and information, participate in critical analysis and research and advance education and ethical practice.

About VICA and Skills USA: