Page A: Type Studies
GDSN 223 P1: 6-letter Bitmap Monogram
This project introduced me to type studies through the use of a fixed grid to create pixel-based letterforms. It helped me better understand shape and visual form while working within constraints. I experimented with different variations until I developed a cohesive system across all letters in my monogram. In the first system I played with shape and form. In the second system I demonstrated the relationship between light and dark to create an illusion of a drop shadow.
GDSN 223 P2: 4-Letter System developed from “R”
Creating a letter system based on the letter “R” was both challenging and foundational. As I was new to Adobe Illustrator, this project became a key learning experience in developing my technical skills. I gained a stronger understanding of stroke weight, angles, curves, and proportions while building a consistent visual system across multiple characters—including spacing. Using “R” as a base provided a strong structural foundation for the rest of the letterforms.
GDSN 223 P3: Sequential Type Work
This project allowed me to explore abstraction and visual storytelling through typography. Using the word Daydreamer, I focused on emphasizing shape while carefully considering spacing and rhythm. Through this process, I strengthened my ability to create balance, visual flow, and cohesive patterns within a typographic sequence.
Page B: Poster Fold
GDSN 223 P4: Poster Fold
The Poster Fold was the final project of GDSN 223 and brought together the skills I developed throughout the semester. I designed a music festival poster for Neon Lights, focusing on using visual hierarchy to guide the viewer’s eye and make the information easy to navigate. My choices in typography, color, and layout were intentional to reflect the overall mood of the event.
The most challenging aspect was creating a composition that presented a large amount of information without overwhelming the viewer. This project helped me refine my design style and strengthened my ability to communicate ideas clearly through visual organization.
Page C: Magazine
GDSN 224 P1: Magazine
From this project, I developed a stronger understanding of how to guide the viewer’s eye using visual hierarchy, including the effective use of headlines, images, and pull quotes. I learned how to control reader attention while organizing information in a way that is both engaging and easy to follow.
For the overall style, I incorporated earthy, organic elements to reflect the theme of the article. I made intentional decisions regarding color, typography, imagery, and layout, while paying close attention to margins, grids, and spacing to emulate a real-world magazine layout. This project encouraged me to think more intentionally about design choices beyond overall aesthetics.
Page D: Packaging
GDSN 224 P2: Packaging
Creating a package design taught me how to communicate information quickly and effectively. Designing a custom infographic pushed me to combine visuals with information to tell a clear story—focusing on showing rather than telling.
Throughout the process, I considered hierarchy, readability, and audience, carefully deciding what elements should capture attention first. I developed a stronger understanding of how to present steps clearly so users can easily understand the product and its purpose.
This was my favorite project, as it allowed me to apply real-world design skills and think more strategically about how design communicates.
Page F: Artwork
These pieces reflect my personal artistic style, and these examples include some of my favorite paintings over the past couple years. I tend to make artwork that is sentimental to me or made for other people. I enjoy pushing beyond my comfort zone by creating art on unconventional surfaces (kinco gloves), allowing me to expand both my creativity and approach to design.
Page G: Bio
Hello, my name is Emmy Reeves. I am a second-year graphic design student at Montana State University. Originally from Denver, Colorado, I moved to Bozeman to pursue my degree and grow as a designer.
While my formal experience in art began through my studies, I have developed a strong interest in visual design, with a focus on color, theme, and layout. I am excited to continue exploring new skills and mediums as I refine my creative approach and expand my design perspective over the next two years.