1st yr Crits

Today we, as second years, had the pleasure of attending the first year's final critiques. It was both interesting, and surreal. I remember very clearly being in their position last year, and how nervous I was.

Overall I was pleased with what I saw, and am excited to see what they produce in the future. I was asked to critique one student, and I chose to critique Kristy Stroud. She did an excellent job in her presentation. She spoke clearly, her boards demonstrated her concepts well, and she went above and beyond what was required of her. During her presentation she used her deliverables well. By walking us through the model she constructed we, as the audience, were able to get a better sense of what the space would be like to inhabit.

I would offer a few suggestions moving forward though... Her perspectives, while well drawn and rendered, deserve to be showcased and should be larger when presenting. I would also suggest that she use lighter colors when rendering. It was difficult to see the details, and read them from far away. She has a good technique when rendering, and it would not be difficult to make these minor adjustments, and make her work that much more powerful.

I would also suggest that the documents be mounted to make them pop out, and be the showcase of her presentation. After putting in such long hours into designing, you should pay special attention to how you will be delivering them.

Also, it was noticeable that during the presentation she covered her drawings while displaying her model. She held it directly in front of her drawings while she walked us through the model. It would be a better usage to go back and forth between the model and the drawings so that the audience can get the entire experience.

I would like to commend her on a job well done. It is difficult to stand in front of a large crowd and present and defend your work. She did an excellent job, with minor issues, that can be easily fixed in the next presentation.

Congratulations, Kristy, on the completion of first year, and good luck as a second year! You'll do great!