Basics of 2-D Design

Formal Content

What design elements do you observe in this picture?

What design elements do you observe in this picture?

What design elements do you observe in this picture?

Horizontal lines are typically the most static. Vertical lines imply potential change. When verticals adhere to the edge of the design, they become tethered and thus lose mobility. Free-floating verticals, on the other hand, seem ready to topple at any moment. Diagonal lines and curving lines are generally the most dynamic.

Implied line is a suggested line created through the alignment of unconnected forms.

[blank_start]Gestalt[blank_end] is defined as the whole is different than the sum of its parts

[blank_start]Low-definition shapes[blank_end], including soft­ edged shapes, gradations, and transparencies, can increase the complexity of the design and encour­age multiple interpretations.

Choose images showing non-representational shapes.

Between [blank_start]non-objective[blank_end] and [blank_start]representational[blank_end] shapes – these two extremes, [blank_start]abstract[blank_end] shapes are derived from visual reality but are distilled or transformed, reducing their resemblance to the original source.

A shape distinguished from the background is called a negative shape, or ground. The surrounding is called the positive shape, or figure.

The following are principles of Gestalt. Choose all that apply.

[blank_start]Principles of design[blank_end] are general compositional rules or concepts used to organize the elements that form a work of art

The following are the principles of art:

[blank_start]Economy[blank_end] is an organizing concept that points to the use of only what is needed to create an intended affect in a work of art/design.

An equilibrium of weight or force among visual components in a composition is known as visual balance. There two types of balance used in organizing an image: symmetrical and asymmetrical.

(Implied) Movement uses deliberate visual pathways to help direct the viewer’s attention to areas of particular interest in a work of art.