Representational Approaches in Graphic Design

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

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Abstract

Graphic design tries to convey the message to the viewers through an effective and innovative process. It includes a wide variety of branches such as book illustration, trademark design, motion pictures, packaging, web site design, etc, all of which try to meet three basic functions: giving information or instruction, making introduced and identity presentation and advertisement or promotion. Each distinct function communicates with the viewer through a different way. Like other forms of visual media, graphic design conveys the messages through three different ways: representational (or simulation of nature), abstract and symbolic (or encoding).Different messages are generally expressed by different modes of graphic design approaches. The present study focused on representation approach in graphic design and on its justification usage. To meet this end, this study first addressed the content of representational approach, its different kinds and the ways it worked in graphically designed works for graphic design students and all those interested in this field. Meanwhile, different ways of communication as well as how they can be realized graphically were addressed. Since creativity always plays a major role in graphic design and seemingly representational expression conflicts with creativity, the present study aimed to make clear the relationship between creativity and representational expression. The main questions posed here include 1- In what ways representation is realized in graphic design? 2- Basically what intention is met by graphic representation? 3- How is a creative graphic representation possible? The data were collected based on library sources and on certain graphic designs. The results of this applied research were analyzed descriptively. The results indicated that in all three functions of graphic design mentioned earlier, certain objectives are met including believability, introducing, straightforward communication, attracting attention, establishing credibility, guiding direction, being convinced

Keywords


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