Podcast #1 Elements of Design

What does it take to create good graphic design? An understanding of the elements and principlesof graphic design.

What is the difference between elements and principles? Elements are the components or parts which can be isolated in any visual design. Principles tell us how we should organize elements on a page or screen.

Name the six (6) elements of design. Line, shape/form, space, texture, value, and color.

What can lines aid in, when alone or combined with  other lines or shapes? Lines can aid in the readability, appearance, and message of a design.

Which lines suggest a feeling of rest? Why do you think? Horizontal because parallel lines are at rest.

Vertical lines communicate a feeling of what? Why do you think? Loftiness because they show height.

What lines suggest a feeling of movement? Why do you think? Diagonal because they are in motion going one way.

Soft, shallow curved lines suggest what? Why do you think? They suggest comfort, safety, and relaxation because they soften and harsh lines and are easier on the eye.

These lines suggest confusion and turbulence? Why do you think? Deep, acute curves because they are harsh.

What element defines a specific area of space? Shape.

What is the difference between two dimensional shapes and three dimensional shapes? Two dimensional shapes have width and height. Three dimensional shapes have depth as well as width and height.

Describe the difference between geometric shapes and organic shapes? Geometric shapes are structured, often symmetrical shapes. Organic shapes are found in nature or can be man made.

What are abstract shapes? Abstract shapes are stylized or simplified versions of natural shapes.

Which basic shape projects an attitude of honesty or equality? A square.

What do triangles suggest? Action, it can also suggest stability.

Circles convey feelings of what? Protection or infinity.

Describe positive space and negative space? Positive space refers to area which contains all of the elements you have added to a design. Negative space refers to the shapes around and between those elements and objects.

What is texture? Texture refers to the actual surface of a design.

Incorporating texture into a design can help do what? Create a feeling of richness and depth.

What is value? The degree of light and dark in a design.

What is another name for value? Another name for value is tone.

What can the element of color do when incorporated into a design? Color can convey moods, create images, attract attention, and identify objects.