Post #2 - Video #1 Elements of Design

What does it take to create good graphic design?

It consists of using computer graphic software to create a design that conveys information and is also pleasing to the eye. It also requires the understanding of the elements of principles of design.

What is the difference between elements and principles?

Elements are the components or parts which can be isolated in any visual design. They are things that we add in the actual design.

Principles tell us how we should organize elements on a page or screen.

Name the six (6) elements of design.

Line, Shape or form, space, texture, value, and color.

What can lines aid in, when alone or combined with other lines or shapes?

Lines that are either alone or combined with other lines or shapes can aid in the readability, appearance, and message of a design.

Which lines suggest a feeling of rest? Why do you think?

Horizontal lines suggest a feeling a rest because flat surfaces are horizontal to other flat surfaces, which compliments gravity.

Vertical lines communicate a feeling of what? Why do you think?

Vertical lines communicate a feeling of loftiness. They can define how some things are shaped and emphasize a certain area of a picture.

What lines suggest a feeling of movement? Why do you think?

Diagonal lines suggest a feeling of movement because it is something that seems unstable in relation to gravity. Examples would be a falling book or flying a kite.

Soft, shallow curved lines suggest what? Why do you think?

Soft, shallow curved lines suggest comfort and relaxation because they have a graceful and delicate effect.

These lines suggest confusion and turbulence? Why do you think?

Deep, acute curves suggest confusion and turbulence because they tend look loud and bold.

What element defines a specific area of space? What is the difference between two dimensional shapes and three dimensional shapes?

Shape defines a specific area of space. A two dimensional shape has width and height, while a three dimensional shape has depth, including the width and height.

Describe the difference between geometric shapes and organic shapes?

Geometric shapes are structured, often symmetrical shapes. It includes squares, circles, and triangles as well as octagons, hexagons, and cones.
Organic shapes are found in nature or they could be man made shapes. They are often irregular and fluid. Leaves are an example of a natural shape.

What are abstract shapes?

Abstract shapes are stylized or simplified versions of natural shapes. They include symbols found in signs. An example of this is the wheelchair sign indicating handicap access.

Which basic shape projects an attitude of honesty or equality?
Square

What do triangles suggest?
Action and stability(if pyramid shaped)

Circles convey feelings of what?
protection or infinity

Describe positive space and negative space? What is texture? Incorporating texture into a design can help do what? What is value?

Positive space refers to the object and elements used in a design. It is the area, which contains all of the elements you have added to your design. It may include text, graphics, photos, lines, or shapes. Negative space refers to the shapes around and between those objects and elements. It gives a pace for the eye to rest, which is needed in order for the message you're trying to communicate to be absorbed. It is also a visual cue that indicates a break in the content or that the content is finished.



Texture can refer to the actual surface of the design with the reader actually being able to feel the texture of the paper and materials in the printed design. Incorporating texture into a design will help create a feeling of richness and depth.

Value is the degree of light and dark in a design. It is the contrast between black and white and all the tones in between. It can also be used with color. It gives objects depth and perception creating spatial illusions.

What is another name for value? What can the element of color do when incorporated into a design?
Another name for value is tone. Color can be applied to any other element of design. It can convey moods, create images, attract attention, and identify objects.