Podcast #1

What does it take to create good graphic design?

An understanding of the elements and principles.

What is the difference between elements and principles?

Elements are the components; principles say how we should order them.

Name the six (6) elements of design.

Line, shape, space, texture, value, and color.

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

They can be used to show readability and the message of a design.

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

Horizontal; they are flat, in relation to gravity.

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

A feeling of loftiness, because they provide a lot of space.

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

Diagonal; they look unstable in relation to gravity

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

Comfort and relaxation, because they seem very calm.

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

Deep acute curves, because they look look like they are going all over the place.

What element defines a specific area of space?

Shapes.

What is the difference between two dimensional shapes and three dimensional shapes?

A 2D shape has width and height, while a 3D shape has depth as well.

Describe the difference between geometric shapes and organic shapes?

Geometric shapes are most often symmetrical, and organic shapes are irregular.

What are abstract shapes?

Simplified versions of natural shapes.

Which basic shape projects an attitude of honesty or equality?

Square.

What do triangles suggest?

Action and stability.

Circles convey feelings of what?

Protection or infinity.

Describe positive space and negative space?

Positive space refers to the objects and elements used in design, and negative space refers to the shapes around and between those shapes.

What is texture?

Either the actual surface of the design, or implied through layering to give the illusion on physical texture.

Incorporating texture into a design can help do what?

A felling of richness and depth.

What is value?

The degree of light and dark in a design; the contrast between black and white, and all colors in between.

What is another name for value?

Tone.

What can the element of color do when incorporated into a design?

Convey moods, attract attention, and identify objects.

Color is unusual because it can be applied to any other element.