Elements of GD_Mietzner

 

1. Grid

- A grid is a system in graphic design that is designed by purposeful lines either horizontally or vertically in direction. 

- The grid acts as a starting point for a composition.

- Grids help to organize designs rather than creating a static design in the center of the page.

- Grids organize different forms other than art such as architecture and even neighborhood and road layouts.

2. Pattern

Patterns have risen from three basic concepts. These three are isolated elements, linear elements, and a criss-crossing of the two. An example of an isolated elements is a dot while a linear element can be considered to be a stripe. Furthermore, pattern evolves from repetition. Different shapes can create unique patterns that speak to different people while some patterns can create illusions in an artistic form. Patterns can also be formed from regular and irregular forces. 

3. Point, Plane and Line

The points, plane and lines are the foundation for building upon in design. Typography tends to be a set of points that form along a linear path that forms words and letters. A point is a simple mark in space without any width in either direction. A line is a series of points going in a linear direction that forms a line. Lines tend to have many widths but eventually become planes when it becomes thick enough. A plane is a flat surface in which it has height and depth. Volume on the other hand includes width, length, and height.

4. Rhythm and Balance

Balance is a simple aspect in all forms of life. Whether it's biological in our equilibrium or balancing on a rope over a canyon, balance is included in all forms including design. Balance is important when it comes to how a design catches the human eye and the way that it carries it throughout the composition. A balanced design involves everything being spaced evenly without anomalies. Rhythm tends to incorporate patterns with repetition. 

5. Hierarchy

Hierarchy is known as the order of importance within a social group. Hierarchy exists in everything such as politics, religion, family, and even in nature such as the food chain. Hierarchy consists of name titles such as general but can also be expressed visually in things such as art in relation to scale, value, color, spacing, and placement. Hierarchy in graphic design is a major factor as it controls the impact of an image or message. Hierarchy signals a change from level to level. Hierarchy in typography is seen in tables of contents and restaurant menus. Hierarchy can also be seen in dimensional objects. 

6. Modularity

Modularity is the idea of working within constraints of graphic design. Modularity is a module which is a fixed element that is used within a larger system or structure. A good way to visually think of this concept is the example that a pixel is a module that builds an entire image made of millions of pixels. Another example is Lego bricks that can each be built onto one another in different combinations. Constraints are what forms the designer's placement and design of objects and letters within a kind of grid setting. Using modules, the designer is able to create different designs.