VISUAL TECHNIQUES

Balance, asymmetry, unity, economy, stasis, depth, consistency.

Balance, symmetry, exaggeration, consistency.

Both of these designs are visually balanced and consistent. The first one: the bookshelf with the shape of a tree has an asymmetrical structure that gives it a slightly organic appearance (still being highly geometrical due to the purpose of its functionality as a bookshelf). Its whole structure communicates unity due to the use of one tone of green and in the way the tree branches and trunk have been put together to make a whole piece instead of many separate pieces. The technique of Economy is seen in a way that the designer transmits the message of what this bookshelf represents (a tree) simply by using the shapes of branches and trunk instead of all the detailed visual information like roots, leaves, bird nests, flowers, fruits, etc. So the use of minimum units of visual means is achieving a well-structured composition that fully conveys the message of what it is. Stasis is represented in its suggestion of motionless as it is attached to the wall and the intrinsic static value of a tree. And depth is represented because this is not something flat just painted on the wall. It actually has compartments that serve as space for the books and we may observe the presence of perspective as it is a three-dimensional object.

On the other hand, this futuristic chair that to me, resembles a pair of sound speakers or something like that, perfectly communicates the use of the visual technique of exaggeration through the enlargement and amplification of forms and shapes that have been put together. At the same time, it is a symmetrical and balanced furniture design. And last, its consistency relies on its uniformity and the compatibility of ‘larger than usual’ shapes and forms.

Both designs are highly innovative and functional. They look attractive to the user, and while sharing a few common visual techniques, they have others very different and contrasting ones. In short, these two objects help as inspiration to me, to develop myself as an industrial designer.