Page 90 - Graphic Design and Print Production Fundamentals

78 Chapter 3. Design Elements, Design Principles, and Compositional Organization
(breaking up the horizontal plane into three equal parts). This compartmentalization allows the designer
to reserve certain sections for images and others for the text block.

Modular Grid

Figure 3.34 Modular grid

The modules of this type of grid are always identical and are created by applying consistent horizontal
and vertical divisions to the design space. Like the written notes in a musical score, the modules allow
you to anchor your layout elements and typography to a specific rhythm. With a modular grid, the
horizontal guidelines are tied to the baseline grid that governs the whole document. Baseline grids serve
to anchor most of the elements to a common leading (typographic line spacing). See Figure 3.34.

Baseline Grid

A baseline grid is the horizontal grid that determines where all of the type will sit. You can also use it
to determine the placement and edges of your visual and graphic elements. To create a baseline grid,
determine the right font, size, and leading for your text block, then go to your baseline grid settings
(found with the other grid preferences) and change the baseline grid default (usually 12 pt) to the leading
you will be using in your text block.

Axial

The axial system has a simple premise — all elements are arranged on either side of an axis or line. You
can centre the axis itself in the composition or, for a more energetic asymmetrical composition, place the
axis off centre to either the right or left. This compositional strategy creates a dynamic negative space
on the opposite side. To create a more complex composition, designers often employ an axial system
combined with another — like the radial or dilatational system (see below). They may also use double-
axis compositions with the axes either parallel to each other, or intersecting to create a strong focal point.
There are many instances of the axial system in nature — tree trunks, roots, and vines are good examples.