Paris has used the exploration proposal to define the exploration and development of a design process. The proposal reflects an individual development of subject matter / ideas, inspiration / motivation, including an explanation of Paris’ particular interest in Greek Mythology and artists. Paris also discusses why she has included this inspiration. Inspiration of any kind can appear at the beginning and throughout the design process, but should not be pages and pages of cut-outs from magazines or downloaded images from the internet without reference to communication of concepts and ideas.
Paris also makes reference to aesthetic qualities, and how she will use aesthetics to affect the viewers and communicate her concepts and ideas. Just writing a list of elements and principles does not show a perceptive discussion of their ideas.
Discussion also includes how Paris intends to explore materials and techniques, how using these specific materials and techniques will communicate her concepts and ideas, and how they are appropriate for the task.
Planning exploration and development, both visual and written, can be in the form of a timeline or written as part of the overall exploration proposal document. There must be some evidence of planning the development process.
Some schools use a pro forma which does not always allow for individual ideas and planning. The ideas are usually simplistic, showing little understanding of aesthetics or how materials and techniques will assist in the communication of idea. Students can include brainstorming and inspirational material as part of the exploration proposal.
The shorter exploration proposals are often descriptive and students write lists of aesthetics and materials and techniques without explanation. All work included must be relevant to the students concepts and ideas.