Design Principles - Elements and Principles of Design - Week 1 - Gestalt Theory and Contrast

Elements and Principles of Design
Week 1- Gestalt Theory and Contrast

For the first weeks lecture, first we were taught about the different elements of design, which are the basic fundamentals. They are individual components used together to create art or design. Next was Principles of design. Each week we are taught different principles, from which we are to create art from the medium given to us for that week. This week, our exercise is on Gestalt Theory and contrast where they showed us examples and explained to us how they are shown in artworks. We have to use black and white paper to create art based on these principles. 

Exercise 

For this exercise we have to create artworks based on, contrast and Gestalt Theory using black paper, white paper and glue. 

Contrast

A contrast happens when two elements on a page are different. Since i had to make this from paper cut outs I thought it would be difficult if i put too much detail into it. I did some research and I made some sketches first on my note pad to get an idea of what it is going to look like.  

Figure 1.0 - Idea exploration - 04/04/2021

For further research I related to this article as well --> https://www.johnlovett.com/contrast

Figure 1.1 - Rough idea sketch - 04/04/2021

Figure 1.2 - Rough idea sketch - 04/04/2021

Gestalt Theory

Gestalt Theory is the perception of humans in how they categorize similar elements, recognize patterns and simplify complex images when we perceive objects. I had a hard time coming up with ideas on what do for this. 

Figure 1.3 - Idea exploration - 04/04/2021

I related to the following article for further research --> https://www.painting-course.com/the-painting-course-1/lesson-20-gestalt-principles-of-art-and-design

Figure 1.4 - Rough idea sketch - 04/04/2021

Final design outcome

Contrast

Figure 1.5 - Final Contrast - 04/04/2021

Gestalt Theory 

Figure 1.6 - Final Gestalt Theory - 04/04/2021

Dr Charles Feedback

For the Gestalt Theory, Dr. Charles felt that the design is not perceived enough, and that it is too obvious. He also advised that i could play around with the framing/ or framing parts of it. The design doesn't necessarily need to be changed. Though, for the contrast, I would say that the feedback i got was fairly positive.

Figure 1.7 - Final Gestalt after feedback - 07/04/2021

Reflection 

It was difficult for me to understand the concepts at first, but with research and learning how the design principles are supposed to work i think i got a pretty good idea of it. I feel really happy with the with the ideas i came up with for the principles.