DREAM JOURNEY_MFA THESIS

DREAM JOURNEY IS BOLD, ABSTRACT, AND DELICATE.

M NEY

DREAM JOURNE M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T B Y J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY IS BOLD, ABSTRACT, AND DELICATE.

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T B Y J I AY U W A N G Genera t e d by Mid journ e y

2

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

About the MFA Thesis Project

My MFA thesis project is intended to identify a real-world problem, allow the intuitive use of graphic design as the potential solution through research and analysis, and present various design deliverables for comprehensive analysis and understanding.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, the average person dreams four to six times per night. The problem is that most people do not understand the meaning of dreams and how to discover the connection between dream interpretation and real life. My thesis project involves using graphic design and AI technology to help people analyze their dreams and establish a personalized connection between their dreams and daily life through various kinds of design deliverables.

Genera t e d by Mid journ e y

DREAM JOURNEY

3

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM

BUILD THE STRATEGY

DEVELOP THE BRAND

8 Background Research

22 Questions

38 Logo Development

14 Gaps & Opportunities

24 Personas

46 Final Logo

16 Focus Group Insights

30 Deliverable Strategy Chart

48 Logo Standards

32 Material Matrix Chart

54 Color Palette 56 Imagery Style 64 Typography Guide

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

DELIVERABLES DEVELOPMENT

FINAL DELIVERABLES

68 User Testing

126 Dream Journey Website

80 Website Development

134 Dream Journey Application

92 Application Development

140 Poster Series

106 Posters Development

148 Exhibition Walls

110 Exhibition Development

154 Video Walls 158 Immersive Screen

6

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chapter 1

IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM

8 Background Research 14 Gaps & Opportunities 16 Focus Group Insights

DREAM JOURNEY

7

We forget almost all dreams soon after waking up. But that may not be the whole story. Although most dreams vanish, certain ones tend to remain.

These dreams were so beautiful or bizarre, they captured our attention. Thus, the more impressive your dream or thought, the more likely you are to remember it.

Ernest Hartmann, Director of the Sleep Disorders Center

8

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

9

Insights From Background Research

10

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Connection Insights Emotion is the primary direction of analysis.

Cartwright and Lamberg (1992) emphasize that emotions are integral in shaping the content and themes of dreams, particularly during periods of crisis or heightened emotional stress, underscoring how emotions often drive dream narratives. Conclusions drawn from dream analysis websites and research surveys usually indicate that emotions are the main factor that influences the content of dreams.

When analyzing dreams, it is necessary to consider the basics of real life.

However, what if emotions are not the focus that users want to analyze? How can we establish a bridge between dream content and its direct connection to life if users are curious about it? Dream contents, such as the constantly changing surroundings in dreams, are not currently addressed by dream-analysis websites.

Competitive Analysis Insights Based on the analysis of ten competitor examples, including DreamCloud and Lucid Dream Society, their competitiveness and complementarity only lie in the basic content they provide and whether they offer new and innovative dream-analysis content to users.

Most of them simply list basic information like a dictionary, allowing users to analyze each representative word in their dreams and then piece them together. They have few profit models, mainly through creating online schools

and exclusive dream-analysis services. The main target audience consists of 20 to 60year-olds who are curious about dreams. The secondary audience includes creative professionals such as designers, artists, and writers.

Based on the comparison of competitor examples, their content and taglines are superficial analyses of dreams. They attempt to answer users’ questions about dreams through word, symbol, and online analysis. What they lack is a stable audience that can support longterm dream analysis.

Users can understand the basic meaning of dreams by searching for different dream keywords, but they cannot understand the entire content and details of dreams.

In addition, if dream analysis can preserve users’ interpretation answers for a long time or even convert them into visual content, and use this information as content for blogs or other media, it will make browsing users more willing to try the analysis; it will also consolidate long-term users.

Those examples include online apps and courses, except for two that offer offline communities. Therefore, these organizations do not have any design deliverables for offline use. At present, the promotion method can only be through the website.

DREAM JOURNEY

11

12

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

From Two Perspectives Objective Perspective From an objective perspective, this topic holds widespread interest due to the universal experience of dreaming. Why do we have different types of dreams? What are the reasons for the content that appears in our dreams, and how do they relate to our real-life experiences?

These questions require dream interpretation, but people often do not know how to analyze them or how to apply the insights gained from analysis to their lives.

Personal Perspective From a personal perspective, I frequently discuss this topic with friends. Everyone around me occasionally shares their dreams with me, and they feel curious, absurd, or worried. We wonder if these dreams represent our experiences in real life. This topic will likely remain of interest, as people have an innate curiosity and desire to explore, and dreams are a timeless subject.

In observing competitive applications and websites, it is clear that they lack compelling visual materials, brand identity, and symbols to help users understand. Additionally, no platform that covers all aspects of dream analysis and provides an efficient and innovative way to connect dreams with reality.

G en erate d by M i d j o u r ne y

DREAM JOURNEY

13

Gaps & Opportunities

Potential Gaps and Opportunities 1. There are no representative visual symbols to visually distinguish the different types of dreams.

2. The related organization has not developed an eye-catching brand identity and dedicated resources for dream analysis.

3. Typing is the most common method of recording dreams. If audio input is used, it would be more convenient and efficient for users to recall their dreams.

4. After collecting and analyzing dreams over a certain period of time, the changes and meanings of dreams can be explored again through the analysis of accumulated information, combined with interpersonal relationships or other factors in real life.

14

5. The field of dream analysis has not widely promoted the value of dream analysis and its connection to the audience’s real life through design.

6. Relevant professional resource articles require a medium for the audience to quickly browse and learn about the connection between dream analysis and life.

7. Create visually attractive and easy-tounderstand steps to guide people on how to effectively analyze their dreams.

8. By using a medium to collect and visualize users’ dream information data, users can more easily identify the contents of their dreams. In addition, the factors that affect the development of dreams, such as emotions, interpersonal relationships, and stress in life, can be analyzed after a certain period of time.

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Gaps and Opportunities Categories Long-Term Analysis Dream analysis websites do not provide long-term analysis of dreams, only analyzing each individual dream one by one. If longterm analysis could connect dreams within one month, six months, or one year, and then conduct a deep analysis, this would offer a new perspective to examine these dreams and better relate them to personal experiences within that time period.

Identifying Similar Dreams If dream analysis platforms could identify other users who have had similar dreams through analysis, this would establish a more magical connection.

All Context and Details These websites analyze dreams only by identifying keywords and adjectives. They do not reference all the processes, context, and details in the dreams. Integrating all the dream content during the analysis process would be more helpful for users to understand the dream and its relationship to real life.

Changes After Analysis Dream analysis websites only provide analysis cases and do not describe how the person analyzed has changed in their life afterward.

Providing small changes in users’ lives after the analysis would make people more interested in learning about their dreams.

Various Relationships Analyzing dreams between people in relationships could possibly confirm details of their lives. Collecting and analyzing dreams from friends, family members, and lovers to find potential connections would be valuable.

Different Age Groups Dream-analysis filters do not provide age group selections. People of different ages may have different analysis results when they dream of similar content.

Cross-Cultural Perspectives If dream analysis could analyze users from different cultures and historical backgrounds, the analysis results would be more personalized and focused. This platform could be more inclusive.

DREAM JOURNEY

15

Insights From Focus Group

Chakshing Age: 29 Title: UI/UX Designer

16

Sai Age: 34 Title: PhD Student in Psychology

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Lee Age: 31 Title: Freelance Novelist

Chak After waking up, I would think and reminisce about the details of my dream. But as time passes and I have to think about other things, the information about the dream will be automatically put aside and gradually forgotten.

Insight To avoid forgetting the content of dreams as time passes, a system can be established, like an alarm clock, to remind potential users to record their dreams after waking up.

Chak Collect the feedback information given by users into big data, and then associate the descriptions of users’ dream content with subsequent experiences.

Insight Creating an information collection database to record users’ dream content and experiences can help identify connections between them and assist users in understanding their dreams.

Sai People are always changing and growing.

Many ideas also change. The dream I had tonight will make me believe more in it than the dream I had last night. The subconsciousness in dreams can help me understand myself better.

Insight The content of dreams can serve as a record of people’s growth. Looking back at their previous dreams and comparing them with later dreams, potential users can use this information to better understand their own mental journey.

Lee In my dream, one character chased away the other characters, and the next morning I felt refreshed and energized. It’s like my subconscious pressure, something that affects my emotions. But the character in the dream helped to chase it away, which temporarily relieved the emotional pressure.

Insight By conveying dream plotlines that can help alleviate emotional stress in real life, it can attract the audience’s interest in understanding the meaning of dreams and figuring out the pressure in their life.

Lee Only when you have experienced the thing you dreamed, you can explain it, and find out that the thing you dreamed before was to remind you that you will experience this thing in the future.

Insight Experiences may include things that were previously dreamed about, so recording and analyzing dreams can help remind and assist people in predicting future occurrences.

DREAM JOURNEY

17

The interpretation of dreams is the royal road to a knowledge of the unconscious activities of the mind.

Sigmund Freud, The Interpretation of Dreams

Our focus group members believe that dreams are a way to help solve their own emotions, and that dreams can be a form of self-relief for emotions encountered in real life. Furthermore, their dream content may symbolize some aspects that are lacking in real life, which are reflected in their dreams.

Although not all dream content can be remembered, the emotions and feelings in dreams can be experienced. Dreams with strong emotions, such as fear, excitement, and happiness, are more easily remembered,and they would like to know whether these are subconscious thoughts or emotions extended from past experiences.

They proposed some interesting ideas. One is “emotional storage,” which is a way to help people process emotions in dreams.

Another is “lucid dreaming,” which involves controlling what happens in dreams.

When considering ways to record dreams, the interviewees first thought of methods that do not involve writing, as writing can slowly consume their memory of the dream.

Recording audio is a potential direction.

Regarding the analysis of dream content, the interviewees believe that it requires the use of AI to integrate user feedback and information into big data, which would produce more accurate analysis results.

Additionally, recording dreams can create a daily routine, similar to keeping a diary, which helps users cultivate this habit, and it can lead to a more comprehensive analysis of dream information.

Ge n e rate d by DAL L •E

18

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

19

20

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chapter 2

BUILD THE STRATEGY

22 Questions 24 Personas 30 Deliverable Strategy Chart 32 Material Matrix Chart

DREAM JOURNEY

21

Questions

22

Why are current dream-analysis websites not enough to help people get personalized content?

Friends or people in close relationships may have similar dreams.

How can we follow up in this case?

Current dream-analysis sites offer generalized interpretations based on common symbols without considering individuals’ lives, emotions, or experiences. Dreams are highly subjective and influenced by personal factors such as memory, relationships, and psychological state, which standard interpretations fail to capture. In addition, most sites lack interactive, in-depth analysis tools that can adapt to individual situations or provide insights based on long-term dream patterns.

Resources concerning friends and communities help users discover that their friends or people in close relationships may have similar dreams. Factors such as shared experiences, emotional connections, and similar daily stressors may lead to common themes in dreams. By using a dream diary, an app can analyze dream content, emotional tone, and patterns of recurring elements. This can also strengthen users’ personal relationships with friends and family around them.

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

What are your reasons for saying that different age groups have different emotions in dreams?

If emotions are the primary factor affecting dreams, how can various emotions be represented in design?

Different age groups experience varying emotions in their dreams due to the distinct developmental stages, psychological concerns, and life experiences they go through.

Younger people, who are navigating identity, emotional growth, and social pressures, tend to have more complex, emotionally charged dreams, often dealing with self-image, relationships, and anxiety. Adults’ dreams can be shaped by daily stress, responsibilities, and unresolved conflicts, reflecting both personal and professional concerns. Domhoff (1996) supports this by describing how adolescents’ dreams often focus on identity and social dynamics, while adults’ dreams are frequently influenced by work, relationships, and family responsibilities.

The basic human emotions—joy, anger, fear, sadness, and worry—can be visually represented visually through colors and graphics to reflect the emotions often experienced in dreams. By associating each emotion with specific colors and visual motifs, we can create a design language that helps people better feel and express the emotional content of their dreams.

DREAM JOURNEY

23

At the beginning of defining the design project, personas are an important tool to represent key user archetypes, helping to clarify the target audience and establish criteria for their needs. These cards guide decisions by providing insights into user goals, behaviors, and pain points, ensuring that design choices remain user-centric.

In addition, two personas can be set up that are not within the target audience to establish a constraint. This helps me focus on creating solutions that meet real user needs.

24

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

25

Personas

Daniel Clark Gender Age Location Occupation Income

Male 27 Cleveland Novelist $52,000 per year

Specific Traits 1. He enjoys collecting writing materials from his life experiences.

2. He does not have a fixed residence.

3. Dreams have always been a curious field for him.

4. He often visits related websites to explore this area.

5. The fantasy style fiction is his recent writing direction.

6. He uses his phone’s notepad to record the content of his dreams.

26

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Short Statement I have always accumulated life experiences as writing materials, and my creative inspiration often comes from them. Currently, I am writing in the fantasy theme, and dreams are what I want to explore so that I can use them in stories and character backgrounds.

Every time I travel to a new place, specific people and events appear in my dreams, and I believe this is guiding me.

Kimberly Green Gender Age Location Occupation Cost

Female 19 Ohio Psychology Major Student $2,300 cost per month

Specific Traits 1. She currently lives in a dormitory on campus, and her roommate has the same major.

2. Dream analysis is often used as a research option in her field of study.

3. She hopes to better understand and apply dreams.

4. She wants to learn about the connection between dream analysis and life.

5. Her future career goal is to become a professional psychotherapist.

Short Statement As a psychology student, I have a passion for learning about all areas that have an impact on emotional and mental health. I believe dream analysis is a field that is worth studying and exploring, and I have been browsing related websites and articles frequently lately. Emotions seem to be one of the factors that influence dreams, and I am researching this aspect.

Olivia Garcia Gender Age Location Occupation Income

Female 31 Columbus Yoga Teacher $50,000 per year

Specific Traits 1. Her classes are held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

2. One-on-one yoga training is conducted on weekends.

3. Pays attention to physical fitness and diet management.

4. She often has dreams during nap time, most about yoga things.

5. Occasionally Google’s dream analysis.

Short Statement I have been practicing yoga for five years, starting out as a yoga enthusiast. Yoga is a great way to relax both the mind and body.

Coupled with healthy eating, it is very beneficial to one’s health. I dream frequently and often encounter unusual people and yoga events in my dreams, but I’m not sure what they mean.

DREAM JOURNEY

27

Jiayu Wang Gender Age Location Occupation Cost

Female 23 San Francisco Graphic Design Student $3,600 cost per month

Specific Traits 1. Currently study at the AAU, which located in San Francisco.

2. Passionate about suspense movies.

3. Staying with her friends is an indispensable part of daily life.

4. Sleeps for at least nine hours every day.

5. Records every dream by sending voice messages to my friends.

Short Statement I believe that dreams are a very fascinating and unique phenomenon, sometimes the content of dreams can even be similar to people and events in real life. My friends and I often discuss the content of our dreams, and sometimes we even have the same characters appearing in our dreams. I often thinking the hidden connections between them.

James Anderson Gender Age Location Occupation Income

Male 32 Los Angeles Investigative Journalist $63,000 per year

Specific Traits 1. His work hours are not fixed, and he often needs to work overtime.

2. His working area current focuses on the affairs investigation.

3. Each article requires him to write and review it.

4. He has a cat named Luis.

5. He often dreams, even if he stays up late and has short sleep time.

6. He is curious about the meaning of his dreams, and sometimes he will briefly write them down on notebook.

28

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Short Statement My curiosity may have been caused by my job, as I always have to investigate and report on different events. I have a strong sense of time, and even if my sleep time is not fixed, I will not miss my work. I’m curious about the meaning of my dreams. My habit is to write them down on paper to avoid forgetting them.

Tian Qi Gender Age Location Occupation Income

Male 44 Chongqing, China Manager $98,000 per year

Specific Traits 1. He has a 6 years old daughter.

2. His family settled in Chongqing.

3. He enjoy watching TV dramas with suspense and ethical themes.

4. His wife often appears in their dreams with different characteristics.

5. Sometimes bring his daily emotions into his dreams.

Short Statement My life revolves around my child and wife, which includes dropping off and picking up my child from school and spending time with my love and child. These have become part of my daily routine. I don’t know if it’s because my life is filled with my wife, but I often dream of she. Sometimes they are beautiful dreams, and other times they make me angry. I’m not sure of the exact reason, but I feel like my dreams are like a retelling of my life.

DREAM JOURNEY

29

30

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Deliverables Strategy Chart

Insight 1 Different emotions and experiences in reality can be reflected in dreams. The information conveyed through dream interpretation guides people to explore the meaning of dreams and enjoying the mysterious image. This shared exploration of dreams fosters a deeper connection among individuals, as they find common ground in their curiosity and experiences, bringing people closer through this dream journey.

Strategy Develop a user-friendly platform where people can interpret their dreams, maintain a personal dream diary, and share interesting dreams with friends and the community.

Deliverable A platform that serves as the primary resource to offer all goals while enhancing the experience for exploration and connection between dreams and daily life.

Insight 2 Ernest Hartmann, director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, indicates that we forget almost all dreams soon after waking up. Existing dream-analysis tools lack the ability to record and track users’ long-term dream content and experiences.

Strategy Provide a system to help users actively and conveniently participate in recording and that preserves long-term dream content.

Deliverable An app that acts as a gentle reminder for users to capture their dreams upon waking, offering a convenient and efficient tool for recording and preserving dream details effortlessly.

Insight 3 The lack of tangible, visual representation of dreams limits people’s ability to connect with their dreams in an engaging and accessible way.

Strategy Encourage and facilitate people to explore their dreams by inviting them to try the application and website, where they can uncover personalized insights, track their dream journeys, and connect with others who share their curiosity.

Deliverable An immersive experience that invites visitors to discover the secrets of dreams through interactive displays, artistic interpretations, and guided reflections on the nature of dreams.

DREAM JOURNEY

31

Material Matrix Chart

A Website Platform The website serves as the primary resource for dream analysis, offering all relevant resources and interpret services based on AI technology.

AI-Generated Interpretation Provide an online Al-generated interpretation channel to assist users in specific dream analysis and provide personalized explanations in real time.

Long-Term Dream Journal Design a system service for users to have a long-term dream log, which will not only save different dream contents but also allow them to view AI-generated images of the dream.

Forums Community It provides users with the opportunity to share their dreams with a group of friends, thus bringing friends and family closer together and allowing for more interesting discussions on the topic of dreams.

32

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

A Mobile Application The Dream Journey App serves as a reminder for users to record their dreams when they wake up, in order to provide a convenient and efficient way to record.

Voice Recording A convenient recording function allows users to quickly start recording their voice, and the transcription function is provided so that users can easily recognize the content.

AI-Generated Interpretation Users can use the interpretation function directly through the application.

An Immersive Exhibition The offline exhibition with the spacial creative design and immersive experience to create a closer connection between people and their dream journey. People have the opportunity to develop interests in dreams through the exhibition, and the immersive experience guides the audience to participate more deeply in the world of dreams.

Poster Series The poster series will feature dream journey examples displayed as hanging posters, capturing the visuals of dreams in order to promote the exhibition and spark curiosity in viewers.

Visual Information Panels To present insights and dream interpretations through engaging graphics and layered text, visitors are guided to explore the symbolic meanings and connections within their own dreams.

Video Display Wall To showcase iconic information alongside AI-generated dream imagery, creating a visual journey that consistent with theme.

Immersive Screen The immersive screen transports viewers into a surreal, dreamlike environment, allowing them to experience the visuals and emotions of dreams in a fully engaging display.

DREAM JOURNEY

33

34

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

35

36

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chapter 3

DEVELOP THE BRAND

38 Logo Development 46 Final Logo 48 Logo Standards 54 Color Palette 56 Imagery Style 64 Typography Guide

DREAM JOURNEY

37

DREAM JOURNEY IS BOLD, ABSTRACT, AND DELICATE. 38

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

G en erate d by M i d j o u r ne y DREAM JOURNEY

39

40

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

41

Logo Development

Computer Sketches Phrase During the computer sketching stage, it was decided to use DREAM JOURNEY as the preferred name of the logo and the main visual element. Intuitive text can convey the most direct meaning and indicate the concept of the theme. The focus was on using the moon or stars as secondary graphic elements,

MORPHEUS

42

or combining the two letters D and J, and using lines to imply the connection between dreams and life, continuity and a journey without beginning or end. Also, it reflects the infinite possibilities of dreams.

MORPHEUS

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

JOURNEY

Dream Journey

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

DREAMCATCHER

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

Dream

ourney

Dream

ourney

DREAM JOURNEY

43

Color Palette Exploration Color exploration plays a vital role in logo design because it sets the emotional tone and atmosphere of the brand. Based on my thesis topic, dream journey, the choice of color can evoke specific feelings, such as calm, mystery, or creativity, and help connect with the audience visually and atmospherically.

The color palette exploration for the logo design leans heavily into soft, ethereal tones that evoke a calm, dreamlike atmosphere.

44

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

DREAM JOURNEY

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

Dream Journey

DREAM JOURNEY

45

46

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Final Logo

DREAM JOURNEY

47

Logo Anatomy

Logo anatomy reters to the distinct components that make up a logo, each contributing to the logo’s overall meaning and brand Identity. Clear space is a buffer zone around the logo, ensuring the logo’s visibility and impact are not compromised by surrounding content.

X

X

X X

X

48

X

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

49

Alternative Versions of The Logo

Alternative versions of a logo serve to adapte the brand’s identity to different contexts and uses. These variations ensure the logo remians clear, recognizable, and effective across a wide range of mediums and sizes, from digital screens to printed materials.

50

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

51

Logo Dont’s

Logo should never altered, because the inconsistency can weakened brand recognition, make logo less effective in creating a cohesive brand identity.

Don’t adjust the transparency of the logo, or other visual effects to change the visibility of the logo.

52

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Don’t outline the logo or change to stroke typeface. Use only the provided artwork.

Don’t rotate the graphic logo, always use the logo on the provided angle.

Don’t change the size and specifications of the logo. Always keep the orginial visual effect of the logo.

Don’t move element of the logo to change its original position.

Don’t strech the logo horizontally or vertically to avoid distorting logo’s shape.

DREAM JOURNEY

53

HEX R GB CMYK

#426d99 66, 110, 153 80, 54, 20, 2

HEX RGB CMYK

#abd1e3 171, 209, 227 31, 7, 6, 0

HEX R GB CMYK

#c77899 199,120, 153 21, 60, 18, 0

HEX RGB CMYK

#e8b2c9 232, 178, 201 5, 34, 4, 0

54

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

HEX RGB CMYK

#e8b2c9 232, 178, 201 0, 23, 13, 9

HEX RGB CMYK

#5e5ead 94, 94, 173 72, 69, 0, 0

HEX RGB CMYK

#f0e59e 240, 229, 158 0, 4, 34, 6

HEX RGB CMYK

#c26085 194, 176, 133 25, 26, 52, 0

DREAM JOURNEY

55

56

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

AI-Generated Imagery Style

AI-generated images combined with dreamthemed project can serve as a powerful tool to visualize and interpret the elusive and abstract nature of dreams. This project will include the ability to generate images corresponding to the dream content described by the user, leading people to a deeper understanding of the characteristics of dreams.

Visual representation of dreams AI can generate images that visually represent the symbolic and surreal nature of dreams. By inputting dream descriptions or elements into the AI s​​ ystem, users can obtain visual outputs that bring abstract dream concepts to life. This makes the intangible parts of dreams more tangible and easier to analyze and interpret.

Enhanced understanding through visuals Dreams are symbolic and are easier to understand through both language and images.

AI-generated images provide a visual context to help users better understand and analyze the underlying meanings and emotions associated with specific dream symbols or themes.

allowing for personalized exploration of subconscious imagery. Participants can see their dreams rendered in real-time, enhancing their engagement and insight into their inner life.

Thematic analysis and pattern recognition AI can analyze large datasets of dream descriptions and generate images that reflect common themes or patterns. This is particularly useful for identifying cultural, psychological, or emotional patterns in a population. This analysis can help researchers develop systems to understand broader trends reflected in collective dreams.

Interactive exploration AI images can be used in interactive installations where participants input their dream descriptions and receive corresponding visuals. This can be a powerful tool in exhibitions,

G en erate d by DA L L •E

DREAM JOURNEY

57

58

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

With tools like Midjourney at our disposal, we’re entering a new era of creativity, where the boundaries between what we can imagine and what we can create are rapidly dissolving.

Robert Obaga, Art Director at Ogilvy Africa Kenya

Generated by Midjourney In the dream I was in a bright space in the form of a James Turrell Bauhaus building, and a white unicorn appeared in front of me. The buildings everywhere looked like booths, and I felt like they were scenes in a movie.

Generated by Midjourney There was a little girl walked up an endless spiral staircase. She was wearing a white dress and holding a pink balloon. Countless huge translucent balloons were scattered around the staircase, emitting a soft glow. In my dream, she kept going up, and the infinite world kept playing the same visual loop.

DREAM JOURNEY

59

Generated by Midjourney A person sitting in a bathtub can look up and see a huge upside-down city with huge whales swimming around it. The city is built on the sea, with water waves surrounding every building. The city lights are shining.

60

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Generated by DALL•E In a trance, I felt my vision being diverted, and a bunch of paintings floating in the air suddenly appeared in front of me. They were floating randomly around me. I seemed to be walking forward, but for some reason, the bridge was above me instead of below me.

I was walking on the water, and an old couple next to me were also walking on the water.

I didn’t know if they could also see a bridge above their heads.

DREAM JOURNEY

61

Generated by Midjourney Swarms of colorful butterflies were flying around in a very retro airtight hotel corridor.

The dim lighting of the corridor was in sharp contrast with the splendor of the butterflies.

62

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Generated by DALL•E A lot of people in the subway station, the subway is filled with golden fish, and a lof of golden fish are swimming on the sky in the subway station, but there’s no water. People doesn’t notice this sence. Film color, Kodak film, surreal, dreamy and abstract style.

Generated by DALL•E In my dream, I seemed to dive underwater.

There was a red house under the water, and the door was slightly open as if inviting me in.

There are colorful corals all around and there is light all around. The light seems to be shining from above the water and radiating from the house.

DREAM JOURNEY

63

Typography Guide

Omnes

Bely Display

As the selected font for logo design, it is closely combined with the graphics and lines of the logo to ensure the coherence of the combination of graphics and fonts.

Use as display function to apply to all deliverables, to convey the mysterious tone.

Omnes Regular

Bely Display Regular

ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ

ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ

abcdefghijklm nopqrstuvwxyz

abcdefghijklm nopqrstuvwxyz

!?*&%$#@-+={}[]:;

!?*&%$#@-+={}[]:;

1234567890

1234567890

Designed by Joshua Darden.

From Darden Studio.

Designed by Roxane Gataud.

From TypeTogether.

64

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Gibson Use as main context function to apply to all deliverables, such as body copy, title and subtitle.

Gibson Book

Gibson Medium

ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ

ABCDEFGHIJKLM ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ NOPQRSTUVWXYZ

abcdefghijklm nopqrstuvwxyz

abcdefghijklm nopqrstuvwxyz

!?*&%$#@-+={}[]:;

!?*&%$#@-+={}[]:; !?*&%$#@-+={}[]:;

1234567890

1234567890

Gibson SemiBold

abcdefghijklm nopqrstuvwxyz

1234567890

Designed by Jamie Chang, Kevin King, Patrick Griffin, and Rod McDonald.

From Canada Type.

DREAM JOURNEY

65

66

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chapter 4

DELIVERABLES DEVELOPMENT

68 User Testing 80 Website Development 92 Application Development 106 Posters Development 110 Exhibition Development

DREAM JOURNEY

67

User Testing With People

Wei Age: 25 Title: Advertising Planner

68

Zoe Age: 27 Title: Assurance Senior

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chakshing Age: 29 Title: UI/UX Designer

William Age: 60 Title: Financial Analysis Professor

Keith Age: 28 Title: Moive Director

Bon Age: 34 Title: Post Office Staff

Scarlett Age: 25 Title: Volleyball Player

Jayoon Age: 30 Title: Artist

Divian Age: 24 Title: Graphic Design Student

DREAM JOURNEY

69

70

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

User testing is the process of observing the end users of a software, system, or product using that product to identify usability issues and collect qualitative data about user interactions. This feedback is crucial because it provides insight into real user behaviors, preferences, and difficulties.

The main goal of user testing is to enhance the user experience by ensuring that the product is intuitive, efficient, and effectively meets the user’s needs. User testing can be conducted at various stages of development, from early prototypes to the final product, and can involve different methods such as interviews, observations, task analysis, and survey feedback.

DREAM JOURNEY

71

User Testing Round One

User Testing Round One Objective When things go wrong with your prototype during user testing, this can be a chance to learn something that improves your design.

In this phase, three users tested the interactive prototype of the web and app. The main goal is to ensure that functions are intuitive and efficient to meet user needs and enhance user experience. During round one, feedback is provided on the deliverables’ screen visual, functional steps, as well as the text contents.

72

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

73

User Testing Round Two

User Testing Round Two Objective The user group selected for the second round is expanded to include a wider or different user group to get different perspectives on the usability and appeal of the prototype.

After the first round of user testing focused on evaluating the intuitiveness and efficiency of the prototype’s functionality, the goal of the second round of user testing shifts to refining and validating the improvements made based on the feedback from the first round.

74

Whether the changes made after the first round of user testing have successfully addressed the identified issues. This involves confirming whether the modifications have enhanced the user experience as expected.

The second round helps me identify any new issues that may have arisen from the first round of modifications. Focus on the consistency of the user experience across different functions of the application or website. It is important to ensure that the entire product is cohesive and consistently meets user expectations.

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

75

76

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

77

78

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

User Testing Round Three

User Testing Round Three Objective The purpose of user testing at the end of an app development process is to evaluate how real users interact with the app to ensure it meets their needs and functions as intended.

Collect user insights and suggestions for refining the app before its final release.

The objective is to Identify usability issues and detect any problems or challenges user interface while navigating the app. Validate design choices, and confirm that the app’s interfaces and functionality align with user expectations and provide a seamless experience. To assess the app’s performance across different devices to ensure stability and reliability.

DREAM JOURNEY

79

Structure of Dream Journey App

Registered User

Username & Password

Login

New User

Create Profile

User Agreement

RECORDING

Voice Recording

Start / Pause

Save / Delete

INTERPRET DREAM

Privacy Policy

Interpret Guideline

Send Text

Community Blog

Blogs Overview

Blog Info

Add New Post

Input Content

Convert to Image

Previous Diaries

Diaries View

Add New Diary

Time Span

Journal Guideline

CONTACT

Email Address

Phone Number

Send Message

ABOUT

Mission & Vision

LOGIN / SIGNUP

OUR COMMUNITY

DREAM JOURNAL

LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5

80

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Name

Age

Gender

Education

Recording Catalog

Add New Recording

Voice Transiction

Private Option

Interpret Answers

Add Text Option

Image Generating

Finish

Select Start Date

Select End Date

Input Content

Private or Public

Job

Finish

DREAM JOURNEY

81

82

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Refinements After User Testing

Navigation Bar Goal Display a more practical and functional menu bar. Functions directly create a more balanced relationship. For app prototype clicks, small icons will be more difficult to identify. The size needs to be increased from the visual size.

Before

After

DREAM JOURNEY

83

Pop-Up Window Goal Remove the position of the title text, the image content can be seen more intuitively and clearly. Darken the background gradient color to increase the legibility of the white text.

Before

After

Contact Goal Unify the visual content of the user page.

Replace the line with a button element that matches the theme.

Before

84

After

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Text Legibility Goal Change the background color to increase the readability of the text. For the background of the long text content, I changed to white, and the text color is changed to a dark color in the color palette. The hierarchy of primary and secondary content can be distinguished.

Before

After

Our Community Goal Change the layout to make it richer and more guiding. Delete the date mark and change it to text content to guide users in exploring the content of the next step.

Before

After

DREAM JOURNEY

85

Dream Journal Goal Consider the continuity of the overall function of the App and the ease of use. After the user has logged in, there is no need to distinguish between registered and new users. Display the user’s dream journals and the option to add a new diary.

Before

86

After

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

87

Application Functions Overview

Dream Recording

Dream Journal

88

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Our Community

DREAM JOURNEY

89

90

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Interpret Dream

Generated by DALL•E

DREAM JOURNEY

91

Structure of Dream Journey Web

Registered User

Username & Password

Login

New User

Create Profile

User Agreement

EXHIBITION

Ongoing Exhibition

Upcoming Exhibition

Exhibition Details

INTERPRET DREAM

Privacy Policy

Interpret Guideline

Send Text

Community Blog

Blogs Overview

Blog Info

Add New Post

Input Content

Convert to Image

Previous Diaries

Diaries View

Add New Diary

Time Span

Journal Guideline

CONTACT

Email Address

Phone Number

Send Message

ABOUT

Mission & Vision

Information

LOGIN / SIGNUP

OUR COMMUNITY

DREAM JOURNAL

LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5

92

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Name

Age

Gender

Education

Job

Interpret Answers

Add Text Option

Image Generating

Finish

Interpret History

Select Start Date

Select End Date

Input Content

Private or Public

Finish

Information

DREAM JOURNEY

93

Refinements After User Testing

Homepage Goal In order to better highlight the dreamlike visual effect, the image style was changed.

Use gradient color as the background echoes the topic. The more saturated display typeface was selected as the primary font to emphasize the hierarchy.

Before

94

After

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Navigation Bar Goal Replace the original button graphic shape with four arc corners and change it to only two opposite arc corners, which can correspond to the logo identity and express the meaning of connection.

Before

After

DREAM JOURNEY

95

Interpret

Before

After

Goal Change the layout of the interpretation content, and the scroll method makes the information more fluid, rather than a large amount of text piled together. As well as changing the description of the button to make the functional purpose clearer and more intuitive. And delete unnecessary visual elements.

Exhibition Goal Rearranged the layout of the page graphics and content text to make the information more concentrated, rather than isolating it with text. This will also establish a hierarchy of reading order. At the same time, delete the icon representing the next exhibition and replace it with back to all exhibitions.

This will not distract users’ attention.

Before

96

After

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Dream Journal Goal Refine the overall style of the journal box to make it more consistent with the website’s visuals, use soft gradient colors, and avoid harsh strokes to divide different functions.

Before

After

Dream Journal Goal Change the overall visuals of this page to make it more attractive, and avoid too many split boxes that make the composition inconsistent. Make the community post function more intuitive, and add buttons with different purposes to provide users with choices.

Before

After

DREAM JOURNEY

97

Website Functions Overview

Dream Journal

98

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

99

Interpret

100

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Login & SIgnup

DREAM JOURNEY

101

Community

102

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

103

Homepage

104

About

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Contact

Exhibition

DREAM JOURNEY

105

106

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Posters Development

DREAM JOURNEY

107

Posters Development

108

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

109

110

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

111

112

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Inclusive Exhibition Deliverables

Viewing Distance and Accessibility Regarding the viewing distance and height of the text, the text is placed at a height that is easy for children and wheelchair users with poor vision to see, ensuring that every viewer can easily read the content. During the design process, I preset the exhibition wall height to 157 inches (4m), and the main text is placed between 35 in and 78 in (900 mm-2000 mm).

DREAM JOURNEY

113

Text Size

a

a

24pt

28pt

a 35pt

a a

20 in

30 in

41pt

48pt

a 60pt

Exhibition Wall Viewing Distance

3 in 10 in

40 in

Text Hierarchy and Legibility The exhibition walls and panels should prioritize text hierarchy and legibility to ensure a comfortable and inclusive viewing experience for all visitors. Minimum type sizes should be determined based on typical viewing distances, accommodating both standing and seated visitors. The primary text, such as titles and subheadings, should be large enough to be read from a distance, while the body text should be clear and accessible at closer proximity. Text should be positioned at heights that are easy to view for visitors in wheelchairs and those with low vision, ensuring that everyone can engage with the content without difficulty.

The thoughtful placement and sizing of text not only enhance accessibility but also contribute to a positive audience experience by enabling all visitors to explore the exhibition comfortably.

114

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

50 in

a a a a 72pt

80pt

98pt

115pt

aa 128pt

140pt

60 in 70 in

80 in

90 in

100 in 110 in

DREAM JOURNEY

115

In the process of adjusting the visual content layout of the information panel, in order to provide a comfortable experience, consider a more inclusive perspective and gradually adjust the composition of text and content.

116

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

117

Immersive Screen Video Storyboard

Video Components To create an immersive experience for the audience, I transformed the visual elements in the AI-generated dream images into various dynamic motion movements, such as balloons, butterflies, and whales. From static to dynamic effects that extend and diverge in different dimensions, I adjusted them from X, Y, and Z respectively by using the RUNWAY.

Used abstract graphic elements to make different video storyboards link smoother.

According to early users testing people’s memories of their dreams, these graphic elements are extracted from the atmosphere and scenes that appear in dreams.

All visual elements are adjusted in different dimensions for interactive purposes, aiming to show the human figure or the changes in the picture caused by the movement of hands on the immersive screen.

118

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

119

120

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

121

122

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

123

Video Display Wall

The video translates dream imagery into visual form, animating keywords that describe the content of the dream. These keywords fade in and out with a smooth, soothing motion effect, blending seamlessly with the dreamlike visuals. The fading motion of the text reflects the fleeting and ethereal nature of dreams, creating a calming yet engaging experience.

By providing these descriptive keywords, the video allows viewers to grasp the deeper meaning and origins behind the visualizations, helping them emotionally resonate with the exhibition’s themes. This clever fusion of text and imagery enhances the viewer’s understanding of the interplay between dreams, emotions, and personal experiences.

124

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

125

126

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

Chapter 5

FINAL DELIVERABLES

126 Dream Journey Website 134 Dream Journey Application 140 Poster Series 148 Exhibition Walls 154 Video Walls 158 Immersive Screen

DREAM JOURNEY

127

128

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

129

130

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

131

132

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

133

134

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

135

136

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

137

138

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

139

140

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

141

142

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

143

144

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

145

146

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

147

148

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

149

150

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

151

152

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

153

154

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

155

156

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

157

158

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

159

160

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

161

Immersive Screen The immersive screen offers a surreal experience, allowing visitors to engage closely with dreamlike visuals through touch-sensitive interactions. This close-up perspective enhances the sensory connection, as the flowing, vibrant textures respond dynamically to the user’s movements, immersing them further into the abstract and dynamic world of dreams. The screen transforms abstract visuals into a personal, interactive journey, blending sight and touch to create an unforgettable experience.

162

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

163

164

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

165

166

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

We like to say we’re trying to expand the imaginative powers of the human species. The goal is to make humans more imaginative, not make imaginative machines, which I think is an important distinction.

David Holz, Founder & CEO of Midjourney

Generated by Midjourney

DREAM JOURNEY

167

168

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

My Sincere Thanks

To My Family To my mom and grandma, your support and understanding are the power that has brought me to this stage of my life. I am very grateful for your efforts, which have given me the opportunity to pursue my design dreams without any concerns. Love you.

To My Instructors Thanks to John Nettleton, Jeremy Stout, Mary Scott, Jeff Carino, Hunter Wilmmer, Phill Hamlet, and William Culpepper. Thank you for your guidance, help, keep encouraging and inspiring me, which have enabled me to grow into a designer that I am proud of.

To Myself You did it! Jiayu. You have never given up on pursuing your design dreams. You have been working hard to prove yourself, live up to your family’s expectations and your own life.

I believe you can get what you want, and you must firmly believe that hard work will always pay off. I will wait for you in the next stage of your life. See you there.

DREAM JOURNEY

169

Colophon

School Academy of Art University

Printing and Binding Blurb.com

Instructors John Nettleton, Jeremy Stout

Paper stock Premium Matte 100# Text

Class Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Thesis

Photography Unsplash AI Tool (Midjourney, DALL•E)

Contact Email jiayuwang0128@gmail.com Website dreamjproject.com

Typeface Bely Display Gibson

Copyright © 2024 Jiayu Wang All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without permission and transmitted, distributed, in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording and other electronic or mechanical means. Student project only, no part of this book is for commercial use. Dream Journey is an MFA thesis project designed by Jiayu Wang at Academy of Art University.

172

M FA T H E S I S P R O J E C T | J I AY U W A N G

DREAM JOURNEY

173

REAM OURNEY

DR JOU D R E A M J P R O J E C T. C O M