Monday, February 1, 2010

Line and Rhythm

Line
Lines add structure, movement, and cohesion to all forms of two-dimensional designs.
  • Used to define, enclose, connect or dissect.
  • show direction
  • add emphasis
  • convey emotion (gestural)
 
Line Quality
Actual Lines
  • Contour lines - define inner and outer edges of an object
  • Calligraphic lines - highly expressive, calligraphy
  • Organizational lines - structural, informational

Implied Lines
Repetition of visual elements that suggest connection--works because we natually seek unity.

Linear Networks
Multiple lines create value and texture and illusion of space.


Rhythm
Rhythm is a pattern created by repeating elements that are varied. Rhythm allows your designs to develop an internal consistency that makes it easier for the viewer to understand. 
  • Once the brain recognizes the pattern in the rhythm it can understand the whole design.
Repetition (repeating similar elements in a consistent manner) and variation (a change in the form, size, or position of the elements) are the keys to visual rhythm. 

Repetition of visual imagery, headline, specific placement on the page, color, imparts a sense of organization that brings a composition together and helps the viewer comprehend the information.

Effective application of rhythm.  
  • Spacing
  • Location
  • Size
  • Value/Color 
Effective design has visual elements paced and patterned, combined with variety at non-specific intervals to create emphasis and hierarchy within the composition.

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