Preparing to Cut - Illustrator Work

These are initial experiments done on illustrator in preparation to cut.  I experimented with trees, how they're going to be displayed and implemented text.  I think I'll start with simple silhouettes first and slowly implement other things. This is where I have got to so far:

What is a Line?.. Primary Research - Birds

Whilst taking pictures around Leeds, I noticed a lot of active wildlife that included mostly birds.  They add to the naturist feel of the landscapes as they are interact directly with the environment.  I decided to head to Lotherton Hall, a place just outside Leeds that hosts a bird sanctuary; featuring birds from around the globe.

I decided to make birds a sub-theme of my work, alongside skylines.  As mentioned before, they fit a picturesque landscape by representing nature itself, and give life to an otherwise potentially dull landscape.

Here is a selection of the photographs taken at the bird sanctuary.

What is a Line?.. Primary Research - Skylines

A great example of silhouettes are skylines, a definitive break between land and sky that makes for an unpredictable yet easily recognisable line.  I took pictures around the scenic routes of Leeds that included pathways, canals and animals in which I can start to 'draw' with a scalpel.

I took a range of photos in which I narrowed down to 20 strong images to work from.

Speaking From Experience Questions

[This is my initial work on the sheet completed in the session.  After revision, some of the points are less relevant than others and I am sure I can compile a stronger list after research & thought process.]

List 5 things a first year needs to know?

1. Meet my friend Blogger.  He will rule your existence for the next 3 years.
2. If you're a lazy person, prepare to change.
3. Whatever you do, DO NOT yawn in front of Fred.
4. The first few weeks... don't get used to it.  Be ready for work, and a lot of it.
5. For the next 2 years, consider yourself slaves to the third years.  Don't worry though, your time will come.

List 5 problems a first year will encounter?

1. Be prepared to finish at 7:30, electives are on their way.
2. Digital Print is not always accessible, make sure to book in advance.
3. Spare time - there won't be a lot of it.
4. Minimal funds.
5. Public transport - don't rely on it.

List 5 rules a first year needs to learn.

1. Learn to bake a cake.  Trust me, it's relevant.
2. Learn how to make a Facebook group, and how to add everybody in the year onto it.
3. Make sure you're reliable.  This is the most important trait you can have at this stage.
4. Learn key routes to college.  Finding the balance between maximum sleep and punctuality is crucial.
5. Put your phone on silent.  Do yourself a favour and save the embarrassment.