VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN TERMINOLOGY
, Term/illustration Definition
Design elements
Point
A mark that may be used to indicate position and location.
Point is small in relation to the whole of the design and is not
necessarily circular. It can represent a point of measure or be used
as decoration. It can add texture or tone. Examples of application
include half tone printing, pixilation, dot rendering and map
indicators.
Line
Line represents a single dimension, length, which connects
one point to another. It can be straight, curved or irregular and
combined with other elements. The weight and quality of the line
may vary depending on its intended use and the tool used to
create it, giving it character and meaning. Digitally drawn line can
be clean and precise while one drawn with a brush and ink can be
loose and relaxed. Examples of application include diagrams and
illustration, printmaking techniques and technical drawing.
Shape
Shape is two-dimensional. It is the defined space contained within
lines. It can be organic, geometric, abstract or symbolic and
can be used in conjunction with other elements to create form
or pattern. It can used to simplify complex objects for effective
communication. Examples of application include logo, symbols,
graphic design and stencil work.
Form
Form is considered three-dimensional and can be illustrated
or constructed. It can also be organic, geometric, abstract or
symbolic. Form may be created by the joining of two or more
shapes and enhanced by tone, texture and colour. Examples of
application include packaging forms, interior fit outs, signage,
architecture and industrial design.
, Term/illustration Definition
Design elements
Point
A mark that may be used to indicate position and location.
Point is small in relation to the whole of the design and is not
necessarily circular. It can represent a point of measure or be used
as decoration. It can add texture or tone. Examples of application
include half tone printing, pixilation, dot rendering and map
indicators.
Line
Line represents a single dimension, length, which connects
one point to another. It can be straight, curved or irregular and
combined with other elements. The weight and quality of the line
may vary depending on its intended use and the tool used to
create it, giving it character and meaning. Digitally drawn line can
be clean and precise while one drawn with a brush and ink can be
loose and relaxed. Examples of application include diagrams and
illustration, printmaking techniques and technical drawing.
Shape
Shape is two-dimensional. It is the defined space contained within
lines. It can be organic, geometric, abstract or symbolic and
can be used in conjunction with other elements to create form
or pattern. It can used to simplify complex objects for effective
communication. Examples of application include logo, symbols,
graphic design and stencil work.
Form
Form is considered three-dimensional and can be illustrated
or constructed. It can also be organic, geometric, abstract or
symbolic. Form may be created by the joining of two or more
shapes and enhanced by tone, texture and colour. Examples of
application include packaging forms, interior fit outs, signage,
architecture and industrial design.
