Every shape and form has meaning constructed from it's context. As shown above (through a search on google images), a "cross" can have many different meanings. When composed of a vertical line crossing a vertical line equally, this symbol is made: +. This can represent: a plus sign, a first aid kit, the swiss flag. The reason you can see it as a Swiss Flag is because of the colour and box around it.
When the proportions are changed, it can related to Christianity, and when inverted, the sign represents the worshipping of the devil.
Visual Communication: A level of shared understanding of shapes and symbols.
Many factors are key when looking at communication:
-Colour
-Negative / Positive Space
-Proportions
-Social Context
Semiotics:
-Symbolism
-Sign
-Signifier
Example: The Apple Logo - One of the most iconic designs in the world.
Symbolism: The symbol is that of an apple with a bite taken out of it.
Sign: A brand of computer. When lit up on a Macbook, shows that the laptop is on.
Signifier: Simplicity, clean, easy. An apple is often associated with learning.
Visual Language In Graphic Design Is Composed Of:
-Format
-Frame
-Figure/Form
Visual Dynamics
-Composition
-Type/Image
-Colour
-Layout
-Legibility/ Readability
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5 Different Fonts Found On Fontbook:
Helvetica
-Clean and timeless.
-Modernist and functional.
-Grotesk.
Bauhaus 93
- Heavy weight.
Curved/ Geometric.
- Architectural.
Devangali Sangam MN
-Sanskrit type, with letters I am entirely unfamiliar with. However, the shape and form of them are completely different to type I am used to.
Century Gothic
-Sans Serif, minimal and quite light.
Times New Roman
-Most famous and used serf, as it is the default font on Windows.
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4 Examples of Design
I like...
Zito's Sandwich Shoppe - Tag Collective - Branding
The idea was to create a brand thats fits well with the rich heritage of Italian Cafes in Brooklyn, New York. I think the overal design has a classic feel, and all the pieces work well together.
iQ Toyota Typeface - Pierre Smeets and Damien Aresta
A typeface composed of the manoeuvrability of a car. Really inspiring use of media, as well as a fantastic engaging video to watch.
I hate:
This website is the most difficult website to understand in the world. I have read every single word on the page, yet still have no clue what the website is about. The navigation is appalling not to mention the poor quality of image.
Info Graphics are meant to be clear and concise, yet the Japanese have almost become famous for communicating crude or misunderstood messages.
Here the sign mentions every single agonising way in which you should not use a toilet.