Shape Shape, Decoration, and Line Shape Line Decoration

Shape

Photographers, illustrators, and fine artists continue to be enriched by our long artistic history as they approach the contemporary photograph. One way to approach an idea is to consider semiotics. This theory of symbols and signs explores how people derive meaning from words, sounds, and pictures. A basic premise of the study of semiotics is that all things can be classified in one of two ways: the thing itself or the reference to the thing. Analyze your subject from the point of view of creating an icon, a symbol, and an index. An icon is the image of the thing. A symbol shows cultural associations. An index indicates the presence of the thing.

Shape, Decoration, and Line

Shape

The shape consists of the general outline of something or a closed form/path.
Shape can be defined as an object contained by a closed path, or line. Shapes function as "signifiers," or things that cause the viewer to draw a certain conclusion-- as is the case with the shape of traffic signs, and the forms of pictographs. They are used to create images that will be remembered, such as logos.

For a design to be successful, it needs to effectively inform the viewer in a visually pleasing way. Content can be enhanced through decoration. Many styles of decorative letters and printer’s ornaments can be incorporated into a design to add interest to the content.

Line

Lines can be used to describe shapes.

• open or filled?
• filled with color, tone or texture?
• A shape can be curving or angular; regular or changing; flat or volumetric; etc.

Designers use a variety of lines in their work. Some variables with lines include thickness, color, regular and irregular rhythm, angle, solid and broken form, and curvature. Lines define space, by creating edges around objects. Lines also divide space, making specific areas for certain elements of the layout. They also provide a sense of visual direction. The form and arrangement of letters in text also involves lines, as letters are symbolic lines and text follows a certain direction, or line, in the work.

Decoration

The creators of these posters were promoting an event in a certain city. They decided to use the shapes of common things that can be seen in the city. This is effective because the shapes are all very distinct.

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