Elements of GD_Salverson

 

1. Grid

   

Grids are networks of lines that can be horizontal, vertical, angled, irregular, circular, and more. Ultimately, these lines help guide the hand and eye. 

Often times, textual materials use grids to break up the page and prevent the text from becoming overwhelming. Bibles have long since been two columns and magazine often use three or more vertical divides. 

2. Pattern

Patterns evolve and move from place to place and time to time. Some patterns are even defined by computer code.

Although they differ, they are made up from three basic forms: isolated elements (dots), linear elements (lines), and an interaction of the former two. Repeating these basic forms results in a pattern.  

3. Point, Line, Plane

Point, line, and plane are building blocks of design. These elements can combine and build diagrams, textures, patterns, typography, and more. One such process that utilizes these elements is the halftone process, which converts camera images into a pattern of dots. Let's turn to each individual element.

A point marks a position in space and takes the form of a dot. Multiple points combine to create new elements. For example, a series of points become a line, and a mass of points becomes a texture, shape, or plane. 

A line is an infinite series of points. It can also be defined as a connection between two point, a path of a moving point, and where two planes meet. Once a line reaches a certain thickness, it becomes a plane

A plane is a flat surface extending in height and width. Another working definition is a path of a moving line. 

Volume is within a graphic object that encloses three dimensional space. Volume can be depicted a few ways: linear prospective and axonometric projection. A linear prospective simulates optical distortions by receding in space. An axonometric project, on the other hand, depicts volume without elements that recede in space.  

4. Balance and Rhythm

Visual balance is when weight of one or more things id distributed evenly or proportionately in space. Balance acts as a catalyst for form. It anchors and activates elements in space. Balance can be attained using symmetry. A symmetrical design has elements on at least two sides along a common axis and is inherently stable. An asymmetrical design is based around form and negative space and is more active. 

Rhythm is a strong, regular, repeated pattern. These patterns do not have to remain identical throughout; they can be punctuated with change and variation. Rhythm guides the viewer's eye. 

5. Hierarchy

Hierarchy is the order of importance within a social group or in a body of text. Visually, hierarchy controls the deliver and impact of a message. After all, design is the conscious effort to impose a meaningful order.

Hierarchy can be simple or complex, rigorous or loose, flat or articulated, etc. Typically, it is expressed through naming systems. Elements such as alignment, leading, indents, and type size and style are used to establish a hierarchy. These elements need to be used even more cognizantly when designing on a three-dimensional form. They need to carry the viewer's eyes around the form.

6. Modularity

We solve visual problems within constraints and limitations. Sometimes, increased restraints help remove decisions and streamline our thought processes. Modules are fixed elements used within a larger system or structure. They can help limit design choices. 

A symbol stands for objects, functions, and processes. Symbol systems are typically based on geometric modules that come together to create lots of forms and functions. Working within a symbol system is modular and helps streamline our thought processes.