Task 1: Exploration
Anggia Tsani Rachmadiyanti, (0368487)
Design Principles / GCD60804
Task 1: Exploration (20%)
(Week 1 - Week 3)
CONTENT LIST (Click to jump to each section)
MODULE BRIEF PDF
Lecture Notes :
[ Lecture 0 / Intro to Elements & Principles of Design
]
- A good design is one which can deliver and convey a message with a purpose to the target audience. This is what visual communication is about
- Element of Design is the individual building blocks in which designers such as visual artist and graphic designers use to create a compelling composition that resonates effectively to the eyes of the viewers. These components creates an impactful design. The elements of design includes point, line, shape, form, texture, space and colour.
- Principles of Design are the organisational fundamentals which are resulted from / guides arrangement of the elements.
ELEMENTS OF DESIGN:
- POINT - Point is the building block of any design but when used repeatedly in a careful manner creates something unique and interesting to the eye.
- LINE - Line is the by product of using points in a repetitive manner or in another term when 2 or more point connects in a space. It gives rise to various form of lines such as horizontal, vertical, diagonal and even curve lines. We can create shapes, texture and patterns by in cooperating various form of lines.
- SHAPE - A shape is an extended version of a line where lines meets to form an enclose 2-Dimensional element. Shapes is categorised in 2 forms which are geometrical and organic shapes. Geometrical shapes often times are precise and rigid where as organic shapes tend to me more irregular patter which gives off a rather relaxed appearances.
- FORM - A form is an upgraded version of shapes where the shapes are now presented in a 3-Dimensional element which has volume and often time have mass.
- SPACE - plays a very significant role when it comes to designing and when used efficiently, it brings about the whole design together creating a comprehensive and cohesive design. White space, also known as negative space, is the area in a design that is intentionally left blank or unoccupied. In design, white space plays a crucial role in creating hierarchy, organisation, and conveying additional meaning or ideas to engage the audience. It provides visual breathing room, enhances readability, and helps focus attention on key elements.
- TEXTURE - Portray a design appearance that gives the design its very own character and personality. It gives the viewer the imagined feel of a illustration such as a sense of roughness, smoothness or even ripples visual which can create a more visual interest and heightened the sensory experiences
- COLOUR - Colour is the reflection of light wave that is perceived by the human eyes which is used to set the mood, depth, viewpoint and emotion of a composition using the colour wheel and theory. Artist and designers alike engage with various colours to bring about definition to their work.
- VALUE - Value revolves around the brightness and the darkness of a colour. It is shown in a form of gradient where the shades displays a variation of hues ranging from the lightest to the darkest colour.
PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN:
- Contrast, Balance, Emphasis, Rule of Third,
Repetition/Pattern/Rhythm, Movement, Hierarchy, Alignment,
Harmony, Unity, Proportion.
[ Lecture 1 / Contrast & Gestalt Theory ]
Contrast:
- It emphasises a point on the design. Contrast is the
first thing that grabs a viewer’s attention when it comes to an
art or design as it has its own uniqueness that is hard to look
past. Contrast is a vital element in design that creates visual
impact on a design. This can often be found in various creative
disciplines which includes photography, interior design, graphic
design and even architecture. Basically, contrast takes form
when 2 opposite element come to gather to form a cohesive
design. It establishes space/distinction between elements,
ensuring readability, sets the tone and mood as well as the
harmonious coexistence of a design. Significant contrast between
background and element colours is crucial as it brings out the
focal point of an idea. When it comes to contrast, there are
several types that can be utilised to create a visually
interesting design that is impactful in terms of message that is
being conveyed to the viewers...
Gestalt Theory:
- Gestalt theory is often linked to our mind, how we perceive
and make sense of visual elements. It shows how one can group
similar elements, recognize patterns and simplify complex
images when we perceive objects. This theory initially
originated from the phycology field which is then extended to
various field such as designing. The Gestalt principles in
design provide valuable guidelines for creating visually
effective and aesthetically pleasing compositions. When it
comes to gestalt theory, there are several types that can be
utilised to create a visually interesting design.
- "Gestalt" means "shape/form" in German
(Fig. 1.1)
1) Principle of Similarity
- we tend to perceive elements that shares visual
attributes such as colour, shape, size, or texture, as a
complete picture despite is being a separate entity.
For example, using similar heading for a book title gives a
standardise look and maintain visual coherence.
2) Principle of Continuation
- The design contains lines, paths and curves which lead the
human eyes as it travels following the flow of the
visual. This principle creates a sense of flow which
pave a path that guide the viewers eyes through a design.
3) Principle of Closure - We human like to see shapes which are complete.
We tend to see a lot of logos or icons that lacks
completeness. Due to the human eye preference for
interpreting unfinished shapes as whole or complete
entity, we then to compensate the lacking by mentally
filling in the missing pieces of a design to perceive a
complete design.
4) Principle of Proximity - The principle of proximity proposes that
grouping object that is associated with one another and
distancing those that is not related to signify the
connection. In design, grouping related element helps to
create visual unity and hierarchy in a layout.
5) Principle of Figure/Ground - This is a unique law as objects can be
perceived as being either in the foreground or the
background. They can garner attention as a main subject
which is knows as the figure or as a backdrop which is
know as the ground.
6) Principle of Symmetry & Order - principal of symmetry states that element
symmetrical to one another is perceived as a unified
group. Symmetrical designs create a sense of order and
formality, while asymmetry can evoke dynamic energy.
[ Lecture 2 / Balance & Emphasis ]
Balance:
- Means how the 'weight of visuals' in a design/art is
distributed
- When there is balance, the weight of visual elements look
balanced. There are 2 types of balance: Symmetrical &
Asymmetrical.
- Just as you wouldn't overcrowd a cake with many
decoration, it is crucial to avoid clustering heavy elements in
a single area of your composition. Balance in a design refers to
how an element with various side in a design is weighted against
one another to create a cohesive design that is stable and well
balances.
1) Symmetrical Balance
- When you cut/split an artwork into half, both sides has equal
weight. Both sides of the centre line has their elements equally
arranged. This form of balance gives stability, hierarchy and formality
in design. In symmetrical balance, the object on one side is
mirrored to another side which ultimately gives a 100%
resemblance to one another
2) Asymmetrical Balance - When the visual weight on each side of the
artwork/design is unequal. This creates more interesting and
dynamic look and gives sense of modernity and energy. There is
more variety here. Object is divided in a way where balance is obtained through
variation, contrast and weight. One side of the composition may
contain dominant element whereas other is covered by a much
submissive element to not over power the main focal point.
Unlike symmetrical balance, asymmetrical balance relies on
dissimilar elements to achieve equilibrium which often results
in a more dynamic and interesting design.
(Fig. 2)
Golden Ratio:
- Is a mathematical concept which many people over
centuries years ago have taken it as a guide to create
visual balance in paintings and architecture and
artworks.
- It helps give balance, harmony and structure to an
artwork/design.
(Fig. 2.1)
Credit image: https://elementor.com/blog/golden-ratio/
Rule of Thirds:
- A guide for composition to create dynamism to a
design, photograph, movies or painting.
- The rule of third is a type of composition in
which an image is divided evenly into thirds, both
vertically and horizontally. The focal of the image is
either aligned at the intersection of the divided line
or along one of those line.
Emphasis:
- Used to create focus and dominance in design and
art
- Emphasis in design determines the focal point and
hierarchy of information, guiding the placement and visual
prominence of elements to effectively communicate the intended
message and capture the viewer's attention.
[ Lecture 3 / Repetition & Movement ]
Repetition (pattern & rhythm):
- Repetition makes a work 'alive', and creating repeated
elements of design creates pattern & rhythm.
- Keeps the viewer engaged and actively involved in the
composition. Therefore to maintain exciting and dynamic rhythm
and pattern, variation is needed be it in terms of colour , size
or even shape to form a contrast in the composition.
(Fig. 3)
Movement:
- How the flow of design leads viewer's eye in, around and
throughout the composition. It's the path our eyes
follows.
- It creates motion in a visual image. Types of movement:
Shapes, forms, lines, curves.
(Fig. 3.1)
Hierarchy:
- It is how elements in a design are arranged based on its
level of importance, eg: what you want the viewer's eyes to
look at first in your artwork.
- Hierarchy is the arrangement of an element to visually
signal importance. As a result of that, some element might
be bolder than the other to emphasis importance. It directs
viewers to the most important information first.
(Fig. 3.2)
credits: https://www.appletoncreative.com/understanding-visual-hierarchy-helps-your-customers-understand-you/
Alignment:
- It leads viewers throughout the whole composition and
creates stability and sense of unity & cohesion.
- Alignment in design revolves around the arrangement of
visual elements in a way where the edges line up along
common rows or columns, or along an axis so that they are
positioned in a coordinated and orderly manner. Alignments
in a composition creates a sense of harmony and
consistency which create a visually pleasing design to the
viewer’s eye. Besides, alignment acts as a tool to guide
the flow of a design and direct the attention to the key
element the focal pint of the whole design.
(Fig. 3.3)
[ Lecture 4 / Harmony & Unity ]
Harmony:
- Gives a sense that all the elements in a design fit
together. eg: same theme, style and mood.
- It creates aesthetically pleasing and visually appealing
composition
(Fig. 4)
Unity:
- When elements are placed in a balanced manner
they give a sense of 'oneness'.
- Unity and harmony may give a sense of similarity and
familiarity to one another; however, they have their
specific role when it comes to a design. Unity unlike
harmony gives the sense of togetherness in a design
where we can see each element work together be it in
colours, shapes or material to bring a composition
together as a single complete piece instead of a group
of disconnected elements.
Scale & Proportion:
- Scale is the size of an object compared to the
other objects in an artwork or design.
- Proportion is the relationship of 2 or more elements
in a design. When it's used effectively it can give
harmony and unity.
[ Lecture 5 / Symbol, Word & Image ]
Symbols:
- A symbol is a visual representation of something
and is often used to convey complex information.
It's a way to represent something, whether it's an
idea, concept, or object, with a simple visual
element. When it comes to design, symbols are
efficient and versatile visual elements that can
carry significant meaning, a connecting bridge
between complex concept and viewer making it a
powerful tool for communication.
- Arbitrary Symbol - Has no resemblance at
all to the objects or the ideas they represent.
The symbol is invented with the meaning
constructed. Many are based on geometric shapes
and colours.
- Abstract Symbol - Abstract symbols can
look like the objects that they represent but have
less details
- Pictorial Symbol -
Image related and simplified pictures.
(Fig. 5)
Word & Image:
- Images are without a doubt a highly
effective communication tool, be it in a
print or a digital form. It allows users and
viewers to connect with a concept or brand
when appropriate and relevant images are
utilised in a design. Typography on the
other hand has its own perks as a
communication tool when appropriate typeface
is used and arranged strategically. Word and
image is an entirely different communication
tool in a sense that they have different
form of communication with the viewers. They
can stand alone in a design. However, the
outcome of the design might not be as
meaningful as when both are combined
together. The right text with the right
image can change the meaning of the design
entirely.
(Fig. 5.1)
[ Lecture 6 / Visual Analysis ]
Phase 1: Observation
- look closely to visual
elements, describe carefully with your own
words.
Phase 2: Analysis
- think of your observations
and make statements about the artwork
based on observations.
- talk about the design
principles and effects on viewers.
- talk bout how our eyes
are led throughout the work.
Phase 3: Interpretation
- Sum up the observations
and analysis and Relate it with facts
about the artwork/designer and historical
context from published sources.
- What is the meaning of
the design and its purpose?
Exercise: Understanding Design Principles :
Instructions: Describe & demonstrate your understanding
and give design examples for each..
1) Gestalt Theory - Gestalt theory is often linked to our mind, how we perceive
and make sense of visual elements. It shows how one can
group similar elements, recognize patterns and simplify
complex images when we perceive objects."Gestalt" means "shape/form" in German. The human brain
naturally perceives and organizes visual elements into unified
wholes rather than seeing them as separate parts.
Example:
2) Contrast - emphasises a focal point in the design. Contrast is the first thing that grabs a viewer’s attention when it comes to design. Contrast takes form when 2 opposite element come to gather to form a cohesive design. It establishes space/distinction between elements, ensuring readability, sets the tone and mood as well as the harmonious coexistence of a design. Significant contrast between background and element colours is crucial as it brings out the focal point of an idea.
(Fig. 6)
Picture source: https://www.toptal.com/designers/ui/gestalt-principles-of-design
Here, the Figure Ground principle of Gestalt is used. When we
see this image, we first see a black tree, but then it also
tricks the way our minds see the negative space. Here, the black
colour element is the tree, but then when you start looking at
the white gaps on the right and left of the tree you can also
see 2 things which are: chimpanzee and cheetah. This design
takes advantage of negative space. You see 2 things at the same
time. This principle is interesting as the foreground and
background actually contain two distinct images.
2) Contrast - emphasises a focal point in the design. Contrast is the first thing that grabs a viewer’s attention when it comes to design. Contrast takes form when 2 opposite element come to gather to form a cohesive design. It establishes space/distinction between elements, ensuring readability, sets the tone and mood as well as the harmonious coexistence of a design. Significant contrast between background and element colours is crucial as it brings out the focal point of an idea.
Here, there's a huge colour contrast between the yellow and blue.
The inside of the orange which is yellow, stands out the most
which grabs our attention first when we see the image. The yellow
colour becomes the focal point, meanwhile the rest of the entire
photograph is blue. The contrast gives arrangement of opposite
elements, which here you can see light vs. dark colour.
3) Emphasis - create focus and dominance in design and art. Emphasis determines the focal point and hierarchy of
information, guiding the placement and visual prominence of
elements to effectively communicate the intended message and
capture the viewer's attention.
Here, emphasis in size and colour is used to create a main focal
point which is the red eye in the middle. This directing the
viewer’s attention to the red eye first. The red eye is way larger
in size than the other small black eyes behind, and is the only
eye in red colour. Therefore, it creates a huge difference between
both elements.
4) Balance - Means how the 'weight of visuals' in a design/art is
distributed. When there is balance, the weight of visual elements look
balanced. There are 2 types of balance: Symmetrical &
Asymmetrical. Balance in a design refers to how an element with various
side in a design is weighted against one another to create a
cohesive design that is stable and well balances.
Example:
(Fig. 9)
Picture source: https://principles-of-design.weebly.com/balance.html
Here, in this artwork there is symmetrical balance as
both left and right side of the artwork has equal weight
of the elements, making the whole composition balanced.
When you cut and split the artwork into half, both has
equal weight. Both sides of the centre line has their elements equally
arranged. This form of balance gives stability in design. In
symmetrical balance, the object on one side is mirrored to
another side which ultimately gives a 100% resemblance to
one another. Symmetrical balance is achieved when both sides of an
artwork carry the same visual weight. Symmetrical
balance gives the impression of stability in a visual
sense.
5) Repetition - Repetition makes a work 'alive', and creating repeated
elements of design creates pattern & rhythm. It keeps the viewer engaged and actively involved in the
composition. Repetition creates a pattern or a uniform feel to a design.
It creates a recognizable and consistent look in the
design.
Example:
(Fig. 10)
Here, in this design, there are repeated motifs of the cars
side by side at the bottom of the flyer. The repetition of
this elements creates visual consistency. It creates a uniform feeling and
easy to understand and remember. Using consistent visual elements
throughout the design creates unity and reinforces the overall
message. It also helps in establishing a visual rhythm and
enhances the brand identity. It is a carwash flyer so it is good for the company to use cars at
the bottom to better depict what the flyer is about. They used
repetition effectively for their flyer.
6) Movement - How the flow of design leads viewer's eye in, around and
throughout the composition. It's the path our eyes
follows. It creates motion in a visual image. Types of movement:
Shapes, forms, lines, curves.
Example:
(Fig. 11)
In this artwork, there is a sense of movement shown by
the waves. Here, the viewer's eye starts from the left and is
carried to the right by the movement and curves of the
crashing wave. When the wave is followed to its natural
end point, the eye is led to Mt. Fuji in the background
which you may not have seen until your eye was led there.
The curved lines help lead the flow of the viewer's eye
throughout the entire work.
7) Harmony & Unity -
Harmony gives a sense that all the elements in a design fit
together. eg: same theme, style and mood. It creates aesthetically pleasing and visually appealing composition.
Unity is when elements are placed in a balanced manner they give a
sense of 'oneness'. Unity and harmony may give a sense of similarity and
familiarity to one another; however, they have their
specific role when it comes to a design. Unity unlike
harmony gives the sense of togetherness in a design where we
can see each element work together be it in colours, shapes
or material to bring a composition together as a single
complete piece instead of a group of disconnected
elements.
Example:
(Fig. 12)
Boy With a Pipe by Pablo Picasso, Picture Source: https://www.wingedcanvas.com/
In this artwork, unity harmony in colour is used. There is
harmony in colour schemes here. There is a group of 2 or
more colours that look good together according to the colour
wheel for example here are all mostly warm colours. A Boy
With A Pipe by Pablo Picasso was painted during Picasso’s
rose period, which is when he mostly used warmer colours.
This painting has an orange underpainting. So even though
this entire palette is complementary (two colours across
from each other on the colour wheel), it still feels very
warm overall and feels like a whole. The blue colour he used
has a little bit warmth in it so it feels like it is not
separated with the rest of the colours.
8) Symbol - A symbol is a visual representation of something and is
often used to convey complex information. It's a way to
represent something, whether it's an idea, concept, or
object, with a simple visual element. When it comes to
design, symbols are efficient and versatile visual elements
that can carry significant meaning, a connecting bridge
between complex concept and viewer making it a powerful tool
for communication.
Example:
(Fig. 13)
Spotify Logo, Image source: https://newsroom.spotify.com/media-kit/logo-and-brand-assets/
The Spotify logo is a good example of an Abstract symbol
which is a famous app many people use today to listen to
music. Abstract symbols can look like the objects that they
represent but have less details. It is a very simple and minimalistic design but at the
same time gives a meaning of what the app is about which
is related to music. The three curved lines in a circle
represent sound waves, signifying the flow of music and
the company's focus on streaming audio content. It also
symbolizes the "connectivity" and "movement" of music
through its wave-like design. The green background of the logo shows that Spotify
represents growth, vitality, and a fresh feel since it is
music. The simple design with clean lines allows for easy
recognition across different platforms.
9) Word & Image - Images are without a doubt a highly effective communication
tool, be it in a print or a digital form. It allows users
and viewers to connect with a concept or brand when
appropriate and relevant images are utilised in a design.
Typography on the other hand has its own perks as a
communication tool when appropriate typeface is used and
arranged strategically. Word and image is an entirely
different communication tool in a sense that they have
different form of communication with the viewers. They can
stand alone in a design. However, the outcome of the design
might not be as meaningful as when both are combined
together. The right text with the right image can change the
meaning of the design entirely.
Example:
This movie poster has a good overall design in setting the
mood and creating visual unity and harmony. Firstly, there's
visual hierarchy in here, where the title has the biggest
font size out of the rest since that is the first thing the
viewer would read, followed by the cast names and the rest
of the words. Additional text, such as the director’s
name and production credits, is smaller and placed lower on
the poster, maintaining a clear reading flow.
(Fig. 14)
Picture source:
https://lthscomputerart.weebly.com/movie-poster-2020.html
The choice of font also matches with the mood and word
'interlocking' and it gives a mysterious feeling, matches
with the whole composition. The whole colour palette of the
poster is warm, dark and mostly brown and black which gives
a sense of harmony. There's also visual symmetrical balance
where both sides of the poster has equal weight of the
elements as well as both hands holding each other in the
middle which also creates a sense of unity. There is
contrast, alignment, emphasis, and unity to create a
visually striking composition. The central image of
interlocked hands is both the focal point and the main
storytelling device, symbolizing a deep bond. The text and
imagery work cohesively to enhance the dramatic tone.
The hands provide a strong, grounded visual weight, while the typography is arranged in a way that complements the central image without overpowering it. The gradient of darkness towards the top and bottom creates a sense of depth, drawing the viewer’s eye to the middle. The dark color palette with earthy skin tones and a gritty texture suggests themes of struggle, tension, and deep emotional connection. The contrast between the hands and the dark background ensures they stand out prominently. The text in a lighter shade adds contrast without disrupting the harmony of the design.
TASK 1: Selected Design & Visual Analysis:
Below is an artwork I had chosen for this task and
followed by my visual analysis writeup:
(Fig. 15)
Picture Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Great_Wave_off_Kanagawa
Title: "The Great Wave off Kanagawa"
Artist: Katsushika Hokusai
Year: 1831
Medium: Ukiyo-e (Woodblock print)
Size: 24.6 cm × 36.5 cm (9.7 in × 14.4 in)
Why I selected this artwork? :
I chose The Great Wave off Kanagawa because it is one of the
most famous Japanese woodblock prints and is a famous artwork.
Furthermore, it has a dramatic and interesting composition of
all the elements and has a striking visual impact. This artwork
is an excellent example of Ukiyo-e (floating world) art and
masterful printmaking especially during the 1800s. I like the
vintage and warm mood and style here as well as details.
What makes this artwork compelling is its dynamic sense of
movement, achieved through its bold composition, curved lines,
and contrast. The whole picture looks like it is moving so it looks as if it
is alive. The towering wave, with claw-like foam, dominates the
composition, evoking both beauty and danger. The small boats
beneath the wave symbolize human vulnerability against nature’s
immense power. I also like how he balances the use of blue and
warm colour, which makes the whole artwork dramatic. Hokusai’s use of color, balance, and perspective creates a
scene that feels both dramatic and harmonious. I chose this
artwork because it combines traditional Japanese techniques with
Western influences, especially in perspective and shading. It is
an excellent study in design principles and an enduring cultural
symbol of both nature’s force and artistic mastery.
(200 words)
Visual Analysis & Design Principles used :
My Observation:
'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' depicts a massive wave curling over three small boats, with Mount Fuji in the background behind the waves.
- The Wave: The central & main element, painted in shades of blue, has foam that looks like claw-like fingers, adding sense of danger.
- The Boats: Three wooden boats with fishermen struggle against the wave, tilted at precarious angles as the waves curl over
- Mount Fuji: A small, snow-capped mountain in the distance at the bottom right, contrasting with the massive blue wave.
- The Sky: A soft gradient transitioning from light to dark, enhancing depth and atmosphere.
The use of colour is striking, with deep Prussian blue for the water contrasting against the white foam and soft beige sky. The artwork is highly detailed, with fine lines defining each wave and ripple. There are both cool and warm colours used as well. It looks like he used a brown/warm background base colour for the whole artwork. We can clearly see the left side of the artwork is more packed which shows that it is the main focal point and the first thing we will see when we view it.
Analysis
This artwork has many key design principles that make it visually powerful:
1. Balance and Composition / Golden Ratio
The composition is asymmetrical yet balanced. The wave occupies most of the frame, from left to right, while Mount Fuji remains small in the background. Despite the imbalance in size, the placement of the elements keeps the composition harmonious. Hokusai used the rule of GOLDEN RATIO here well.
(Fig. 16)
picture source: https://www.invaluable.com/blog/the-magic-of-math-artists-and-the-golden-ratio/?srsltid=AfmBOoq3lOc_qfvuAfkVJAyr5EpCmPf09RO1gQT1PR_jAXlOiYEtGDaU
The curve of wave aligns with the spiral’s flow, leading
the eye naturally from the crest of the wave to the foam
and downward to the boats and lastly to the mountain. The
highest point of the wave is placed near the Golden Ratio
intersection, making the top left the focal point. This
makes the artwork naturally pleasing to the viewers. This
placement creates a secondary focal point, allowing the
viewer’s eye to move from the wave to the Fuji mountain
smoothly. The elements of the painting feel perfectly
proportioned because of the Golden Ratio, creating a sense
of stability, even though the scene itself is dynamic and
chaotic. It also helps guide the viewer's eye flow and
move across the artwork, making sure there's a smooth and
rhythmic flow from on point to another.
2. Contrast and Color
- The dark blue of the wave contrasts sharply with the light beige sky and white foam, making it stand out.
- The boats and Mount Fuji gives contrast, as their stillness opposes the motion of the wave.
- The sky’s light and dark gradient adds depth, making the wave feel more three-dimensional.
- Contrast and Emphasis: By placing the largest and smallest elements at key ratio points, Hokusai maximizes contrast (massive wave vs. tiny Mount Fuji), making the image more striking and memorable.
3. Movement and Eye Flow
Hokusai guides the viewer’s eye through the composition in a circular motion:
- He used wave’s curved shape which leads the eye upward and downwards in a circular way.
- The foam’s claw-like details create a sense of motion.
- The boats directs the viewer's attention downward.
- The small Mount Fuji serves as a visual anchor once the eyes travel from above the wave and downwards.
4. Depth and Perspective
Unlike traditional flat Japanese prints, Hokusai incorporates Western perspective techniques:
- The boats decrease in size, creating an illusion of depth.
- Overlapping layers (wave, boats, Fuji)
- The low viewpoint makes the wave appear even more massive to the viewer's eyes.
5. Unity and Harmony
Despite its dramatic elements, the piece feels cohesive. The blue tones unify the artwork, and the rhythmic repetition of wave patterns and boat curves maintains visual harmony to the eyes.
6. Emphasis
Hokusai made the wave as the largest element in size as it is the main focal point, whereas the beige, plain brownish background of the sky acts like a negative space so that the focus of this artwork is mainly on the waves.
Interpretation
Symbolism and Meaning
- The Wave: Represents the power of nature, unpredictability, and the fragility of human existence.
- The Boats: Symbolizes human struggle, resilience, and the dangers faced in daily life.
- Mount Fuji: A sacred and stable symbol, contrasting with the chaotic ocean waves curling over.
- Prussian Blue: A new imported pigment, reflecting Japan’s increasing exposure to Western influences.
Historical Context
Hokusai created 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' as part of his series "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" during the Edo period. This was a time when Japan was experiencing cultural flourishing but also isolation from the outside world. The Prussian blue pigment used in the painting was introduced from Europe, showing how foreign influences were beginning to shape Japanese art.
The Ukiyo-e movement (floating world prints) focused on depicting everyday life, landscapes, and fleeting moments, aligning with Buddhist themes of impermanence. The wave’s overwhelming size reflects these time, change, and the uncontrollable force of nature. The dark blue pigment used, called Prussian Blue, was a new material at the time, imported from England through China. The claw-like scary looking wave is about to strike the boats as if it were an enormous monster, one which seems to symbolise the irresistible force of nature and the weakness of human beings.
(source: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/japan/articles/hokusai-s-great-wave)
EXTRA SLIDES I DID:
Conclusion
Hokusai’s 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' is a masterpiece of design, symbolism, and technique. The use of many design principles such as balance, contrast, movement, and perspective makes it visually compelling and emotionally powerful. The composition masterfully leads the viewer’s eye, reinforcing the theme of human vulnerability against nature’s immense force. The use of Western perspective and Prussian blue marks a turning point in Japanese art, blending tradition with modern influences.
My Reflection:
To sum up, I found this first TASK 1 quite easy and very
helpful as I have been introduced to many design principles that
is really important in design. I learnt more design principles
in detailed and I have learnt more on how to do a writeup on
visual analysis step-by-step in a structured way. I also managed
to define each of the design principles, and demonstrate how it
is being applied in the artwork as well as the effect on
viewers. The lecture notes were all really helpful and gave many
examples to relate with the principles.
Comments
Post a Comment