Graphic Design

Graphic design is a form of communication in which visual information is used to convey a message. Unlike fine art, it is normally used for commercial purposes, to convey a specific and persuasive message to a large audience. more...

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Graphic design often incorporates typography, page layout, image development, and branding, but it is not limited to these elements.

Like many forms of communication, graphic design often refers to both the process by which the communication is created, and the final form that it takes.

In its final form, examples of graphic design are everywhere:

• Print Design – magazine & newspaper layout, posters, corporate logo/letterhead/business card design, book & album cover design, package/label design.
• Interactive/Motion Design – Web page layout, Web animation, film/video title design, software interface design.

As a process, graphic design is complex and multi-faceted.

Principles and elements of design

Design principles and elements are the basic visual toolbox of design tactics in every design discipline. The elements (including shape, format, texture, line, value, and color) compose the basic vocabulary of visual design.

Design principles, such as balance, rhythm, emphasis, and unity, constitute the broader structural aspects of the composition.

Graphic design theory

According to the classic theory of design, or graphic design, visual design, art, the visual excitement of a work of design is a result of how the composition of the design elements create mood, style, message, and a look.

See also Aesthetics

There is research and planning that is needed for most design work:

• the design process, which encompasses the step-by-step and often complex path that a designer takes toward a design solution through research, exploration, re-evaluation, and revision of a design problem. This process starts with the client and ends with the finished design product.
• use of a grid to help improve or speed up the layout of images and text. Like the steel internal frame of building, the grid helps the 2D designer place information on paper or screen in a way that improves the design visually and its usability.
• impact and use of technology for design solutions. Graphic designers are usually first to adopt and incorporate new technology in solutions or concepts when possible. This experimentation is not always to the benefit of the design or the user.

The classic theory of design continues to be the first one introduced to starting students and amateurs, with details such as the number of principles varying from book to book and instructor to instructor. However, the classic theory of design is limited in scope as it only considers the decorative aspects of design. More comprehensive theories and treatments include or emphasize aspects of visual communication and usability, sometimes referring to sociology and linguistics.

Read more at Wikipedia.org