ISCA - International School of Creative Arts

Dr. Lee Wright, a faculty member from the LJMU, UK, visited ISCA to evaluate the students' performance in their First Semester Modules. Following the assessment, she conducted a half-day workshop titled "Communicating Identity" with BA (Hons) and MA Communication Design students. The workshop aimed to encourage the students to rethink, redesign, and represent well-established brands that have a significant presence in the minds and homes of Indians.

The students were divided into groups, each assigned a specific brand's tagline displayed on their tables. Acting as clients seeking a redesign, they were tasked with approaching the project from a fresh perspective. Brands such as Lotus Herbals, Biba, Amul, and Baaya were featured, with thematic elements reflecting the essence of each brand. For example, tables representing herbal/cosmetic brands featured textured leaves from nature, Amul's table showcased various vegetables representing the taste of India, Biba's table displayed textiles with diverse textures, and Baaya's table included barks and logs of wood reflecting its focus on home accessories.
The students were instructed to create rough sketches of the materials on their tables, incorporating light and shading techniques on A4 sheets. Additionally, they captured other items on the table from different perspectives using their mobile cameras. Following this, they were asked to utilize Photoshop to combine, edit, and explore packaging possibilities.

The finalized designs were printed and meticulously applied to Package. The entire output was achieved within a short span, and each student proudly showcased their packaging for their respective brand alloted on a table, providing explanations for their design choices. The day was not only filled with valuable learning experiences but also proved to be a highly memorable one for all participants.

Dr. Lee Wright, a faculty member from LJMU, UK, organized a day-long Design Thinking workshop for future aspiring designers aiming to secure spots in premier design institutes across the state and country. The majority of participants were in their senior secondary education phase and pursing under graduates, totalling around 90 attendees. The workshop commenced with participants being provided discarded plastic pet bottles, meters of wire, cello tapes, newspapers, fashion department cutting wastes, and various waste materials.

The central theme of the workshop revolved around contemporary issues in communication design, with a primary focus on sustainability and waste management. After a brief introduction to the concept, students formed groups, leveraging their familiarity with each other to foster a collaborative environment.

The resulting projects showcased the students' creativity and ingenuity, including a shoe stand, a miniature window display replicating a prominent fashion store, a ragdoll, and a versatile serving tray for drinks and snacks and many more design with waste materials.

Considering the unconventional materials provided, the remarkable quality of the outputs achieved by the students was truly commendable. The workshop successfully transcended geographical and educational boundaries, providing a platform for creative exploration and addressing contemporary design challenges.

ISCA wishes everyone a Happy Republic Day!

ISCA stands out as a unique college within the state, dedicated to cultivating responsible and creative minds for the industry. The students receive nurturing attention right from their first day on campus. During a visit by Dr. Lee Wright, Senior Lecturer in Fashion Culture/ Fashion History, PhD supervisor, Liverpool John Moores University, UK the college took initiative by setting up individual workspaces for each student, complete with their names prominently displayed. The submissions, printed on A2 Foam Boards alongside their outputs, were meticulously arranged the day before the jury evaluation.

Following the arrangement of stalls showcasing the First Semester Modules. Within their modules, they engage in briefs that challenge them to devise creative solutions for contemporary issues such as pollution, over-mining, and water wastage. Additionally, they endeavour to reshape the perception of local curios produced and sold to tourists. Postgraduate students, in particular, present compelling business plans that emphasize innovative and robust customer service, departing from conventional business models and strategies. Dr. Lee Wright visited the workspace to assess and provide feedback on the students' work. The atmosphere buzzed with mixed emotions as the students had invested their best efforts. Upon completion, parents were warmly invited to partake in the exhibition walk-through. Swipe to view the pictures capturing the essence of the event.

Exploring Graphic Design History through Stencil Art: Students' Creative Journey!

Thrilled to share the incredible journey of our students who spent a whole week diving into the depths of graphic design history through the art of stencils!

The 8 x 8 ft wall transformed into a 5 x 6 ft canvas where history met creativity. The students delved into the essence of stencil technique, a pivotal method in Graphic Design history, still integral in mass production today. What's fascinating? They mixed primary colors (RYB) to craft a vibrant palette and applied them using sponges, not just for color but also for texture!

But wait, that's not all! The wall showcases a division of Cool and Warm Colors, unveiling their impact. The coconut tree leaves, meticulously cut across three layers of stencils, portrayed the vibrant culture of Kochi.

Teamwork truly shone through this project! From crafting colors to applying stencils with precision, they worked hand in hand, each holding a vital role in creating this stunning mural.

Kudos to these talented students for not just learning about design techniques but immersing themselves in a practical application that mirrors the fusion of history, culture, and teamwork!

Exploring Creativity with M.Voc Students: The Art of Woodcut Printing!

In our M.Voc program, students recently delved into the rich history of printmaking by exploring the captivating world of woodcut technique.

The woodcut technique, a revered form of relief printing, has a profound historical legacy. It's incredible to think that this method was used centuries ago to print everything from religious texts to intricate patterns for art and clothing!

However, our students took this traditional art form to new heights! Rather than sticking to conventional designs, they infused their personality and creativity into the process. They meticulously carved their unique characters and personal motifs onto wooden blocks using specialized wood carving tools such as straight chisels, gouges, and skews.

It's inspiring to witness our students reimagining age-old techniques, infusing them with their own artistic flair, and producing stunning results. This experience not only honed their artistic skills but also provided a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of printmaking.

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ISCA wishes everyone a very happy and wonderful New Year!

The Christmas Celebration at ISCA campus on December 21, 2023, unfolded in a floral theme for the occasion where attendees donned in vibrant floral attire set the tone for the day . Followed by heartfelt Christmas messages from distinguished speakers.
Festivities included a ceremonial cake-cutting, Santa wishes, and a mesmerizing showcase of cultural activities featuring carol group songs , group dance and Best dressed male & female where participants had to go through 4 rounds of challenges.The event reached its pinnacle with a prize distribution ceremony, culminating in a group photo capturing the festive spirit.

Concluded the event with a lively DJ session, leaving attendees with cherished memories of a harmonious blend of tradition and merriment.

ISCA wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas!

3D Typography:Typography Projects: Real-world Impact

In the "Fundamentals of Design" module, First Semester PG Students showcased the practical applications of typography in diverse projects. Crafted from cardboard, 3D standing letters became functional art, merging design theory with real-world impact. The project by Muhsin strategically placed letters spelling "Faculty" to guide visitors, preventing collisions with the faculty room's glass door. Pavin's creation spelled "Entry," enhancing wayfinding behind a sliding glass door. Ubaid's "Thanks" letters served as decor and heartfelt messages near the reception, leaving positive impressions. Jubin’s symbolized the college's commitment to design with "Design" letters in the admission team's room. Adithya's "Visual" letters in the waiting area conveyed inclusivity and collaboration. Shijin's "Learn" letters exemplified communication and design in the admission space. Aditya’s circular arrangement of "Explore" conveyed the limitless nature of design exploration, illustrating typography's role in conveying concepts and ideas.

These projects showcase the seamless blend of design theory and practicality, making education immediately relevant and impactful.