Design Workshops
(Evenings)
Next intake: July 15, 2025
Intro to Graphic Design
Discover the power of visual storytelling and dive into the dynamic world of graphic design. This hands-on course is a solid starting point for anyone curious about the field—whether you're exploring a new career or aiming to take your personal projects to the next level. From idea generation to polished print and digital presentations, you’ll learn how to bring concepts to life using industry-standard tools like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. Along the way, you’ll develop an eye for design, explore the art of typography and layout, and understand how colour, composition, and storytelling work together to create compelling visuals.
What you'll learn
in this workshop
This course offers a well-rounded introduction to the world of graphic design. You'll build a strong creative foundation, learn to navigate essential design tools, and develop the confidence to bring your visual ideas to life—whether for professional projects or personal expression.
Understand the core elements and principles of effective visual design
Explore the basics of colour theory and how it impacts communication
Learn foundational layout techniques and the art of strong composition
Dive into the essentials of typography and its role in visual storytelling
Get hands-on experience with Adobe Photoshop and InDesign
Learn how to use design software for both print and digital media
Understand the basics of file setup, editing, and exporting for different platforms
Discover the stages of the design process—from brainstorming to final presentation
Practice techniques for concept development and visual problem-solving
Gain insight into how designers approach creative challenges in the real world
Meet your
instructor
Kevin Zak
Academic Dean & Department Head - Graphic Media Design
Kevin Zak (MDes) has taught design studies and typography at the University of Alberta and facilitates museum exhibition design workshops for Alberta Museums Association. He specializes in book and exhibition design in his professional practice, and was a designer at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in southern Alberta. His Master’s thesis investigated the positive aspects of sketching by hand for ideation in early post-secondary design education. Kevin has a personal passion for pop-up books.
Course
Information
- A binder or notebook to keep notes and handouts.
- Layout pad and pencils.
- Overall, I enjoyed the course as a whole. Definitely a lot to process in a short time. The courses gives me a good overall picture of graphic design, however, I feel a straight illustrator course would be my first choice next times.
- This was a great intro to graphic design! I have been curious about this path, and it gave me a nice insight into what it is all about. Had fun drawing and learning new computer skills!
- Intro to Graphic Design, part-time evening course will help you to develop fundamentals in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop and give you a taste for drawing an idea. Not just drawing, but developing a concept to expand. I love this course and enjoy what each class offers for a new learning experience.
Upcoming classes for 2025:
July 15
September 14
Make time for your creativity.
Join our evening design workshops and gain hands-on experience in high-demand creative fields—without leaving your day job. Perfect for professionals, upskillers, and career changers.
