Transparency, when used in design, creates a visual ambiguity or equivocal space. When looking at a transparent design, it can be unclear which form is on top and which behind. Since photography accurately depicts spatial and depth representation, transparency is an interesting tool for an artist interested in visual patterns that do not immediately present a clear spatial organization.
Naturalism is often what people will call “realism”, meaning, of course, visual realism. The goal of naturalism is to visually communicate an honest, true-to-life representation of the world around us. In contrast, distortion purposely changes or exaggerates nature. Sometimes this is done to provoke an emotional response or to emphasize design elements within the composition. Below are examples of both, borrowed from the Walker Art Center’s painting collection.
Line is the most recognizable of design elements. The quality or contour of a line is a powerful visual ingredient, and contains potential for unlimited expression. Words often used to describe line quality are thin, thick, rough or smooth.
While nearly all designs will need to be well balanced, Asymmetrical Balance can be used to unify disparate visual elements.
Transparency, when used in design, creates a visual ambiguity or equivocal space. When looking at a transparent design, it can be unclear which form is on top and which behind. Since photography accurately depicts spatial and depth representation, transparency is an interesting tool for an artist interested in visual patterns that do not immediately present a clear spatial organization.