Short Course - Visual Storytelling

Short Course - Visual Storytelling

Introduction

Welcome to Short Course - Visual Storytelling

In this course, we will explore visual storytelling through scenography, its fundamental importance in multiple disciplines and the various mediums through which we can express narratives. By unpacking the avenues for visual design, the elements of scenography and the design process from concept to actualisation you will a holistic understanding of how you can be an active scenographer.

Throughout this course, you will be guided on both theoretical and practical aspects of scenography. We will uncover the intricacies of set design, the nuances of lighting, the evocative power of costume and props. In parallel, we'll nurture your creative potential through interactive exercises, equipping you with mood boarding techniques and an understanding of colour schemes, the layers of historical research, allowing you to infuse authenticity into your designs, ensuring they resonate with cultural and temporal relevance.

Before you begin, download your Working Document

Watch a short video of theatre designer, Jida Akil, giving an introduction to her practice.

Module 1: Theory

1.1 What is Scenography?

Watch a video of Jida Akil unpacking the meaning and importance of scenography.

Defining Scenography

Scenography is the art of designing the visual elements of a performance or narrative, encompassing sets, lighting, props, and costumes. It provides the visual context through which stories are conveyed.

The Role of Scenography

Scenography is a vital storytelling tool that sets the stage and emotional tone for narratives. It creates an immersive environment, enabling the audience to connect with the story on a deeper level.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Scenography has a rich history and cultural significance. It evolves with time, reflecting the values and aesthetics of different eras and regions, making it a dynamic and influential aspect of storytelling.

Versatility Across Disciplines

Scenography can be used in theatre, where it transforms the stage into a narrative canvas, as well as in film, where it breathes life into cinematic stories. Scenography also plays a pivotal role in exhibitions by creating immersive visitor experiences, in event design by setting the atmosphere, and in the emerging realms of virtual and augmented reality, where it shapes digital narratives.

Module 1: Theory (cont.)

1.2 Avenues for Design

Watch a video of Jida Akil discussing the different uses of scenography.

Scenography offers an intricate tapestry of avenues for design, each playing a crucial role in shaping the narrative. In this module, we explore these avenues, from traditional set design to the subtleties of lighting, the character-enhancing potential of costume, and the narrative tools that props provide.

Set Design

Set design creates the physical world where stories unfold. It's an art of its own, influencing the mood, time, place, and overall aesthetics of the performance or narrative. This avenue serves as the canvas upon which narratives come to life.

Lighting Design

Lighting in scenography is the magician's wand that can transform a scene from day to night or create dramatic atmospheres. It guides the audience's focus and emotions, making it an indispensable aspect of design.

Costume Design

Costume design breathes life into characters, giving them a visual identity. Through costumes, personalities, eras, and cultures are conveyed. The choice of attire plays a pivotal role in character development and storytelling.

Props and Objects

Every object on stage or in a scene carries a story within itself. From the mundane to the extraordinary, props provide context and depth to the narrative, offering subtle hints and explicit details that enrich the audience's experience.

Your Turn

Take some time to answer these questions while considering the above in relation to an avenue of design you would like to focus on:

Q1. What avenue of design resonates with you the most?

See Working Document for details.

Q2. What design elements within your chosen avenue do you think could enhance a specific narrative?

See Working Document for details.

Q3. Can you think of any historical or cultural influences that may shape your chosen avenue of design?

See Working Document for details.

Take notes as needed in Exercise 1.2 in your Working Document.

Module 2: Practical

2.1 The Design Process

Watch a video of Jida Akil walking you through her design process.

Design Process

1. Read the Story/Script

The journey begins by immersing yourself in the narrative. Reading the story or script allows you to grasp the plot, characters, and themes, providing a solid foundation for your design.

2. Reflect and Identify

After engaging with the narrative, reflect on its deeper layers. Identify key themes, motifs, and points of interest that will inform your design choices.

3. Brainstorm Ideas

Let your creativity flow as you brainstorm design ideas. Sketching and mood boarding help you visualise concepts and aesthetics that align with the narrative.

4. Create a Model Box (Optional)

Model boxes are invaluable in translating two-dimensional ideas into three-dimensional designs. This step involves crafting a physical or digital representation of your design concept.

5. Realise Your Idea

The design process culminates in set construction, where your ideas take physical form. As rehearsals progress, you fine-tune the design for a seamless performance, leading up to the thrilling opening night.

Research

Effective scenography hinges on robust research. In-depth research lays the foundation for design decisions by providing insights into historical, cultural, and thematic elements. This knowledge helps designers make informed choices that align with the narrative's context and intentions.

Communication

Scenography is often a collaborative endeavor, involving designers, directors, actors, and various technical teams. Effective communication and teamwork are vital to harmoniously bring the design to life.

Module 2: Practical

2.1 Reacting to Sounds and Images

Watch a video of Jida Akil guiding you through the process of creating a moodboard.

Creating a moodboard is like a visual diary, a space where ideas, concepts, and inspiration are brought to life through a collage of images, colours, and textures.

What to Capture?

Colour Scheme

Begin with capturing a palette that resonates with your concept. Think about the emotions and atmosphere you want to convey through colour. Collect images that showcase your chosen colours in different contexts.

Texture

Texture adds depth and richness to your design. Collect images that highlight the textures of materials, fabrics, and surfaces you intend to use in your scenography.

Time Period

If your narrative is set in a specific historical era, gather visual references that reflect the aesthetics and style of that time. Consider clothing, architecture, and design elements.

Location

Reflect the geographical and architectural aspects of your setting. Capture images that convey the sense of place and environment central to your narrative.

How to Research?

Colour Scheme

Delve into the psychology of colour and how it influences mood. Explore colour combinations that best suit your narrative and the emotions you aim to evoke.

Historical

Investigate the historical context of your narrative, including fashion, architecture, and design of the period. This research ensures authenticity and period-specific design elements.

Functionality

Understand the practical aspects of your design. How will the set, lighting, costumes, and props function during the performance? Research technical considerations that impact the design's feasibility.

Idea Research

Explore ideas, themes, and motifs from your narrative. Look for symbols, metaphors, or visual cues that can be incorporated into your design to enhance storytelling.

Extracting an Idea

Identify Key Elements

From your research, identify key visual elements that align with your concept. These might include specific colours, historical references, textures, or design motifs.

Creating a Visual Narrative

Begin to arrange these elements on your moodboard in a way that tells a visual story. Your moodboard should convey the intended mood, style, and atmosphere of your scenography.

Modelling the Idea

Physical or Digital Moodboard

Based on your concept and research, start building your moodboard. You can create a physical board by arranging printed images, textures, and materials, or use digital tools to design a virtual moodboard.

Refinement:

As you construct your moodboard, be open to adjustments and refinements. Let your creative process flow, and don't hesitate to modify elements to better align with your vision.

Your Turn

Q7. Create a Moodboard

Choose Your Narrative
See Working Document for details.
Reflect and Identify Themes
See Working Document for details.
Gather Visual Inspiration
See Working Document for details.
Create Your Moodboard
See Working Document for details.