Research

Research Example 2

Research in a design project is about bringing together diverse influences to create something new

Senior Student - Research Example


This is an example of a senior student's research, before developing work for their project.


Research Example 1

Star Wars - Research Example


George Lucas used a process of Appropriation to bring together various influences, creating a unique and compelling universe.


The development of Star Wars was heavily influenced by a diverse range of international cinema, history, and literature.

The Sources Below outline his influences when developing Star Wars

Influence Source Key Contribution
Opening Titles Flash Gordon (1968) Vertical Tiling Titles.
Japanese Samurai Film The Hidden Fortress (1958) Character dynamics (C-3PO, R2-D2) and story structure.
German Expressionism Metropolis (1927) Visual design for C-3PO.
Westerns The Searchers (1956) Tatooine scenes and Luke Skywalker’s Hero's Journey.
Film Propaganda Triumph of the Will (1935) Visual aesthetics and imposing authority of the Empire.
Science Fiction 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) Technical realism and special effects in space.
British War Film The Dam Busters (1955) The final Death Star trench run sequence.



Flash Gordon & Starwars

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Research Example 2

Hidden Fortress & Starwars

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C-3PO Design

C-3PO Design was based on the Robot from Metropolis (1927).

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Searchers Influence

The Searchers Influence on Star Wars

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Category Resource Description
General Digital Content Pinterest A visual discovery engine for finding ideas like recipes, home and style inspiration, and more.
ArtStation A platform for artists to showcase their work, including concept art, illustration, and 3D modeling.

Character Design & 2D Animation Character Design References A resource for character designers, featuring a vast collection of character design inspiration from various media.
Cartoon Brew A website dedicated to animation news, reviews, and resources, covering both 2D and 3D animation.
Animation Magazine A publication covering the animation industry, including news, reviews, and resources for 2D animation.
Animation Resources A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing animation history and resources, with a focus on 2D animation.

3D Modelling & Animation ArtStation A platform for artists to showcase their work, including concept art, illustration, and 3D modeling.
CGTrader A marketplace for 3D models, offering a wide range of assets for various industries, including gaming, film, and architecture.
TurboSquid A leading marketplace for 3D models, providing high-quality assets for use in various projects.
Blender Artists A community for Blender users to share their work, ask questions, and collaborate on projects.

Game Design Gamasutra A website dedicated to game development, featuring news, articles, and resources for game designers and developers.
Game Informer A magazine and website covering the video game industry, including news, reviews, and features on game design.
Polygon A website covering video games and entertainment, with a focus on game design, industry news, and culture.
Rock Paper Shotgun A website dedicated to PC gaming, featuring news, reviews, and resources for game designers and developers.
IGN A website covering video games and entertainment, with a focus on game design, industry news, and culture.
GameSpot A website covering video games and entertainment, with a focus on game design, industry news, and culture.

Architecture and Design ArchDaily A leading architecture website, featuring news, projects, and resources for architects and designers.
Dezeen A design and architecture magazine, covering the latest news, projects, and trends in the industry.
Architectural Digest A magazine and website covering architecture, interior design, and lifestyle, with a focus on high-end design.
Designboom A website covering architecture, design, and art, featuring news, projects, and competitions.

Graphic Design Designspiration A tool for discovering and sharing design ideas, with a focus on typography, color, and layout.
Behance A platform showcasing creative work across various disciplines, including design, illustration, and photography.
Dribbble A community of designers sharing their work, including UI/UX design, graphic design, and animation.
Awwwards A website that recognizes and promotes the talent and effort of the best web designers, developers, and agencies in the world.
SiteInspire A showcase of the best web design inspiration, featuring a wide range of styles and industries.

Triumph of the Will & Starwars

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Flash Gordon & Starwars

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The Dam Busters & Starwars

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