Fundamental principles.

I have been exploring the more technical side of Graphic Design. During my research for a typography project I have come across some important principles about how to convey the message typographically, keeping all emphasis on the words and their meaning.

Kimberly Elam’s book ‘Grid Systems’ highlights the need to justify elements used to support typography. She says that nonobjective elements (ie, cirlces, dots, rules and other geometric shapes without meaning) should only be used for three reasons;

Emphasis

Organisation

Balance

In this text she also sheds light on how they can help or hinder typographic design;

When nonobjective elements are used functionally, they enhance and support the meaning of the typographic message. When nonobjective elements do not have a function they become decorative elements and attract attention away from the meaning of the typographic message.

(Kimberly Elam)

I am going to try and apply these principles throughout my typography module to create justify my decisions regarding my designs, and I will just have to see if it pays off!