Context of Practise: Study Task 2- LCA Prospectus

During the Context of Practise seminar, we were handed a copy of the 2013 Leeds College of Art prospectus to look through and find things that were liked and disliked about it. From this, we have been asked to identify 5 features that we find either successful or unsuccessful, with a justified rationale.

Layout is Inconsistant in regards to Font and Image Placement
Reference- Page 70, 71 & 72 of the Leeds College of Art Prospectus 2013

1. Throughout the whole prospectus, the layout is disconnected and inconsistent without any discernible fluidity in regards to image placement, text and how the prospectus is connected as a whole. It doesn't act  like it is a whole document that is suppose to look or work in a succinct way. There is no logical sense or structure to the physical and informative contents of the prospectus, which isn't aided by the lack of emphasis on headings which disorientates the reader.

Business- Style Aesthetic appears Formal and Not Representative of the Target Audience

Reference- Page 4 & 5 of the Leeds College of Art Prospectus 2013

2. The prospectus is incredibly formal and is set out so it appears more like a business document. This, in a way, is a strength as it functions at providing all the necessary information that it needs to applicants, however, it is also a large weakness as it doesn't appeal to the target audience of art students who would expect something more creative and informal.

Image has no relevancy to the comment made
Reference- Page 6 of the Leeds College of Art Prospectus 2013

3. The images that have been used are ambiguous, irrelevant and sometimes even pointless in regards to the text and the information being given. Also, the images are quite confusing in reference to thier purpose within the publication, particularly ones that are of only half of something or of nothing in particular.

Front Cover is difficult to read and off-center
Reference- Front Cover of the Leeds College of Art Prospectus 2013 

4. The front cover of the prospectus is difficult to read in regards to the burgundy and aquamarine colours selected to grace the publication. Also, the font chosen makes the text appear off-center with the 'Leeds College of Art' logo placed at the back to the left due to the off-center printing. Plus, the paper choice changes from matt to gloss which alters the aesthetic of the prospectus partway through.

Square shape give it identity and more intimacy with the target audience

5. Despite the fact that the prospectus is quite boring and dull due to it's lack of creativity, it works in regards to it's function of educating and informing the public in a persuasive tone of voice. Also. I like the square form of the prospectus as it is unusual, gives the college more of an identity and makes the prospectus more intimate to the audience due to it's compact size.