Page 78 - Graphic Design and Print Production Fundamentals

66 Chapter 3. Design Elements, Design Principles, and Compositional Organization
Proximity

Figure 3.22 Proximity

Proximity is an arrangement of elements that creates an association or relationship between them (see
Figure 3.22). If individual elements are similar, they will probably be perceived first as a whole and
second as discrete components. If, like the example above, some of the components form to create a
large ‘whole,’ similar elements positioned away from the main shape will also be associated with the
large shape. In this case, the viewer interprets them as falling off or away from the main shape. The
shapes used do not have to be geometric to create the effect of proximity. Any components have a strong
commonality in shape, colour, texture, size, or other visual attribute can achieve proximity. Proximity
can also be achieved with dissimilar shapes and textures if cleverly and conceptually composed.