Post #5

For each of the 5 elements of design (shape, line, texture, space, value), find an example that utilizes each element within the design (Google search for poster design, advertisement, etc.). You should have 5 DIFFERENT sample designs.  For each, evaluate the design in 4 to 5 sentences.  Label each with the appropriate element.  Then, discuss how that particular element is used and how it enhances the design.


1: The Black Swan (Space)

This advertisement for the movie, The Black Swan makes an extremely efficient use of Space in order to create its design. The large amount of white and gray space surrounds the main center design, the swan/eye. By providing such a large space, the contrast of the black and red on the background of the white more effectively forms the image of a swan, also chiseled out of the eye. The eye in itself spaces grey curved points among the white in order to resemble the makeup applied to the eyes of a ballet dancer, of which is one of the main focuses in the movie.

2: The Shining (Value)

This poster for the movie The Shining, based off the book of the same name by Stephen King, makes a great use of value in order to convey a message. Dark orange and black of the trees is used to create an eerie atmosphere in this horror movie. The center of the poster sees a maze that is given a rusty, spotty brown coloring, indicating that it is possibly old, or set in an abandoned place. Finally, the white coloring towards the background, as well as the white circle and shading are to also create a spooky atmosphere, showing the full moon and a misty environment.

3. Buried (Texture)

This poster, for the movie Buried makes an excellent example of the use of Texture in a design. The white on black, coupled with the shaky and uneven lines provides the illusion of depth and falling, even though it is printed on a two-dimensional surface. The use of black and white on the lying person also shows texture, attempting to show the wrinkles of clothes and the features of a face.

4: Tree Scout (Shape)

The poster shown above for the movie Tree Scout makes a use of shape in order to convey its message. The green triangles strewn about the design are used in some parts to resemble trees on a topographical map. This is in a rather simplistic style that also tells the audience what the movie might be about, nature. In addition to this, other triangles to the top of the design are placed in a way resembling directional arrows.

5: American Psycho (Line)

The poster for American Psycho shown above is an example of the use of line in design. Particularly in the knife placed on the left side, striped lines are placed over this blade shaped object to also make it resemble a tie. This suggests that the main character is a normal person who has a secret.