This assignment is about exploring our subconscious in the role of creativity for problem solving. Please follow the process carefully so that your subconscious has time to work. The challenge is to create a MindMap to solve a serious problem you are having. The constraint of MindMaps helps us focus on visual communication; select elements that provoke quick comprehension and recall of the situation.
Process Instructions:
(time required: 1 to 2 hours over 48 hour period)
- Create (by hand in your sketchbook) a Mind-Map on a topic or central theme based on a problem you are dealing with (where to go on spring break, getting a job, live on campus/off campus?, need a new computer, car, etc.). The solution to the problem should be not obvious to you yet, and also a worthwhile problem (that impacts your life meaningfully). Mind map for 20 minutes then take a break. Take a photo of your draft.
- After an hour come back to your mind map and fill in more items – embellish, color, doodle. Take a photo of your finished first MindMap.
- 24 hours later, create a second Mind Map to explore a section of the first Mind Map. Repeat the same process of taking a break and coming back.
- Upload the photos of your 2 mind-maps and post them in your Blog. Describe the experience of mind mapping each map in your blog using the reflection prompts listed in the checklist below. All images and reflection must be in the same post.
Note: The design labs (GHH G06 and 103) and the library have Adobe Photoshop and Apple iPhoto on every computer. These programs help you adjust the color and brightness and contrast of your images. I suggest you use these to get the best quality images in your blogs.
Mind Map Steps
- Place central focus topic or graphic representation of problem in center of page
- Allow ideas to flow freely without judgment
- Use succinct capitalized keywords to represent ideas
- Succinct keywords idea printed per line
- Connect key word ideas to central image with curvy radial branches
- Use color to highlight and emphasize ideas, associations with context
- Use imagery and symbols to highlight ideas and stimulate connections
Fill out this checklist AFTER you have completed your assignment and posted it in your Portfolio Blog: