Page 94 - Graphic Design and Print Production Fundamentals

3.5 Summary

Alex Hass

Exploring the design possibilities that the organizational systems discussed in this chapter possess is an
endless undertaking. Once these systems are innately understood individually, a designer can begin to
play with layering two systems within one design project. Combining contrasting systems often works
well. For instance, an axial system combined with a radial system tempers the axial system’s linear focus
and anchors and diffuses the rays emanating from the radial shapes. A grid combined with a dilatation
system gives the composition both vertical and horizontal structure that is softened by the rounded
shapes. Organizational systems give the designer ways to distribute words or images within a structure
while allowing negative space into the centre of the design space.

Compositional strategies are design constraints. The definition of a design constraint is to apply or
impose limitations on the elements or design of a system. The compositional strategies (systems)
discussed above are in fact design constraints, and they should be understood as parameters that assist
the designer in the design process rather than as restraints that limit the designer’s creativity. Parameters
are necessary in every visual system. Applying a visual organizational system also allows the designer
to focus on the message and the details of a design project rather than on the structure of the composition
that holds the work together. Visual systems create visual unity.

Questions to consider after completing this chapter:

1. Name the design principle that distorts realistic relationships for visual effect and emphasis.
2. Name the three building blocks of design that pertain to form.
3. Describe the eight organizational systems that apply to typography.

4. What are two typographic categories?
5. How many levels of visual hierarchy are needed for hierarchy to exist?

References

Bartel, M. (2012). Principles of design and composition. In Some ideas about composition and design.
Elements, principles, and visual effects. Retrieved from https://www.goshen.edu/art/ed/
Compose.htm#principles

Bradley, S. (2011, January 31). Counterpart and counterpoint in typographic hierarchy. Vanseo Design.
Retrieved from http://www.vanseodesign.com/web-design/counterpart-and-counterpoint-in-
typographic-hierarchy/

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