Scribus

Scribus is a freeware page-layout program. It is comparable with Adobe InDesign (and PageMaker) or Quark XPress. I would say it is comparable to Microsoft Publisher, but that unprofessional program stinks to high heaven - Scribus actually is better (and FREE....don't tell Bill Gates).

Since this program is the one we will use for layout work, use the following resources (and download your own copy too):

• Scribus download page
• Scribus Manual [7.9 MB] - for version 1.4.0, but it should still be handy...
• Scribus Tutorial [1.4 MB] - not a manual, but still somewhat helpful...

GIMP

GIMP (or GNU Image Manipulation Program) is the poorman's Photoshop. And for a class without a budget (yet), the freeware program is a God-send! If you can learn the basics of GIMP, Photoshop (and other applications) will be a breeze.

Since this program is the one we will use for most raster-based graphic work, use the following resources:

• GIMP download page
• GIMP Manual [32.3 MB] - most up to date copy

InkScape

Similar to GIMP, InkScape is freeware for vector based graphics only. Since its free, it has some odd quirks - but, hey - you get what you pay for!

InkScape has MANY peculiarities...so here are some resources to help you (...and don't cry...it'll short out your computer...):

• InkScape download page
• InkScape Manual [4.1 MB]
• Official Manual

The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark. 

Michelangelo

Get ready to be creative...

OK - we are always creative at STEM. But it's usually building robots or finding "creative" solutions for an algebra equation or science question.

That's the LEFT BRAIN.
We are going to massage the RIGHT BRAIN in this class.
We will be spending some time drawing. That's right...drawing.
The best Graphic Designers can sketch a concept effectively and quickly - they do NOT depend on the stupid box (the computer)....

...but you'll hear all about that kinda stuff as we get ready to draw, draw, draw...with pencil and yes, computer later on.

You will need the following supplies, if you can. I don't want you to spend alot of money (art supplies can get really expensive), so check out Hobby Lobby (there's one in the Spokane Valley), or Cheap Joes, or Discount Art. Michael's near Silverlake Mall is also having sales right now just before school.

• Drawing pencil set (including at least 1 of each: 2B, 4B and 6B pencils)
• 1 metal pencil sharpener
• 1 kneaded eraser
• 1 pen & ink metal drawing nib (you may need more than 1; Speedball 512 or 513 Ef work well)
• 1 bottle black india ink (Higgins Black Eternal recommended)
• 1 newsprint paper pad (at least 18 x 24)
• 1 drawing pad (at least 9 x 12)
• 1 drawing sketch book (bound or spiral)
• Something to keep all tools together (a shoebox, an old fishing box, a pencil box...anything)
• Flash drive (at least 1 GB) 

Assignments

There will be weekly sketchbook work, daily assignments and one big, honking, huge Final Project you will love! We will discuss these assignments and the class structure the first week, but in case you need the Assignment List again, click here.

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