Task 1: Exploration

This is the Module Information Booklet: 

MIB

1. These are the design principles taught in this module:

Gestalt theory

• Gestalt theory explains how the human brain perceives patterns, structure, and logic in visuals.
• “Gestalt” means “shape” or “form” in German.
• Gestalt principles describe how we group visual elements into unified wholes rather than seeing them as separate parts.
• These principles simplify complex scenes into basic shapes, helping us recognize patterns and organisation.

FIG 1.1 Example of Gestalt Theory in Design Principles

Contrast

• Contrast is the placement of distinctly different elements side by side.
• Without contrast, visuals would appear dull and uninteresting.
• It adds visual appeal, highlights key points, and enhances meaning.

FIG 1.2 Example Of Contrast In Design Principle

Emphasis

• Emphasis creates focus and dominance in a design.
• It can be achieved using elements like color, shape, or value.
• Emphasis guides the viewer’s attention to the most important part of a design.
• It helps create visual hierarchy and strengthens the overall message.

FIG 1.3 Example Of Emphasis In Design Principle

Balance

• Balance is the even distribution of visual weight in a design.
• It creates a sense of stability and harmony in the composition.
• A balanced design feels visually pleasing and well-structured.
• Balance can be achieved through symmetry or asymmetry.

FIG 1.4 Example Of Balance In Design Principle

Repetition

• Repetition adds movement and energy to a design.
• It helps establish rhythm and create visual patterns.
• Variation is key to keeping the design engaging and avoiding dullness.
• Patterns enhance visual appeal by adding texture and depth.

FIG 1.5 Example Of Repetition In Design Principle

Movement

• Movement guides the viewer’s eye through the composition, creating a flow.
• It can appear as actual motion or visual direction created by shapes, lines, and curves.

FIG 1.6 Example Of Movement In Design Principle

Harmony & Unity

• Harmony is the selection of elements that share a common trait, creating a cohesive feel.
• Without variety, harmony can become repetitive and dull.
• Unity involves the repetition of elements (such as colors or shapes) to bring the design together.
• Unity creates a sense of oneness, while harmony ensures all elements fit well within the design.

FIG 1.7 Example Of Repetition In Design Principle

Symbol

• A symbol is an object or shape that represents something else.
• In design, symbols can convey complex ideas or stories, often replacing words.

FIG 1.8 Example Of Symbol In Design Principle

Word and Image

• Imagery helps users connect with concepts or brands, making it an essential part of design.
• The right words and typeface paired with images can enhance meaning, creating a visual hierarchy.
• Typography refers to how text is arranged to communicate a message effectively.

FIG 1.8 Example Of Symbol In Design Principle

2. Selected Artwork 

FIG 2.1 Victory Boogie Woogie
Artist: Piet Mondrian
Year: 1944
Dimensions: 127cm x 127cm
Medium: Oil and paper on Canvas 

Why I chose this Artwork

I selected Victory Boogie Woogie by Piet Mondrian because it offers a fresh take on abstract design, breaking away from his earlier structured grid compositions. Unlike his previous works, this piece embraces movement, irregularity, and spontaneity, making it more dynamic and engaging.  

Created between 1942 and 1944, the artwork reflects Mondrian’s experience in New York City, where he was inspired by the energy of jazz music and urban life. The fragmented squares, shifting colors, and layered elements create a sense of rhythm and flow, capturing the fast-paced nature of the city.  

From a design perspective, the painting strongly demonstrates contrast, balance, repetition, movement, and unity, aligning with key visual principles. The interaction of bright primary colors with neutral tones, along with the broken grid structure, creates a sense of controlled chaos.  

I find this artwork fascinating because it challenges traditional ideas of order and perfection in design. Even though it remains unfinished, it feels complete, proving that structure can emerge from seeming randomness. Victory Boogie Woogie is not just a painting, it’s a visual representation of rhythm, energy, and modern abstraction.

Design Principles in Victory Boogie Woogie

1. Movement: The scattered arrangement of shapes and varied color placements create an impression of motion, reflecting the energy of jazz and city life
2. Contrast: The vivid primary colors stand out against the softer greys and whites, making certain areas more visually striking
3. Balance: Despite its irregular structure, the placement of colors and shapes creates a sense of visual stability
4. Repetition: The recurring squares and rectangles establish a rhythmic, structured pattern, reinforcing the artwork’s visual flow
5. Harmony & Unity: Although fragmented, the painting’s elements work together cohesively, making it feel complete despite being unfinished

Feedback:

Week 2: Write a description about each design principle in your own words and add visual references.