Grid systems : principles of organizing type
From the Publisher: Although grid systems are the foundation for almost all typographic design, they are often associated with rigid, formulaic solutions. However, the belief that all great design is nonetheless based on grid systems (even if only subverted ones) suggests that few designers truly understand the complexities and potential riches of grid composition. In her best-selling Geometry of Design, Elam shows how proportion, symmetry, and other geometrical systems underlie many of the visual relationships that make for good design. Now, Elam brings the same keen eye and clear explanations to bear on the most prevalent, and maybe least understood, system of visual organization: the grid. Filled with extensive research and more than 100 informative examples from the Bauhaus to Nike ads, Grid Systems provides a rich, easy-to-understand overview and demonstrates a step-by-step approach to typographic composition. It suggests design strategies that transcend simple function and reductionist recipes to allow grids to become a means of truly dynamic communication. Any designer, educator, or student will benefit greatly from this elegant slim book, chock-a-block full of colorful examples, helpful vellum overlays, and Elam's insightful analysis
Print Book, English, ©2004
Princeton Architectural Press, New York, ©2004
120 pages : illustrations (some color) ; 22 cm.
9781568984650, 9781616891831, 1568984650, 1616891831
54082256
Introduction
Project elements and process
Constraints and options
Proportion of elements
Grouping
Negative space and grouping
Perimeter edge and axial relationships
The law of thirds
The circle and composition
Horizonal composition : Brochure for Die neue Typographie ; Cover page and text pages from The isms of art ; Spread from the catalog of Bauhaus products ; Theatre am Hechtplatz advertisement ; SamataMason web site ; Institute for Architecture and Uurban Studies graphic program ; Sotheby's graphic program ; Table of contents spread for The new urban landscape
Horizonal/vertical composition : Zürcher Künstler im Helmhaus poster ; Nike ACG Pro purchase catalog ; Program for Zurich University's 150th anniversary ; Best Swiss posters of the year 1992 ; Festival d'ete (Summer Festival), program spread ; Columbia University, Graduate School of Architecture and Planning posters
Diagonal composition : Kandinsky poster ; Page from Reklama Mechano ; Page from The next call ; National-Zeitung (newspaper) poster series ; Title page studies for the Freiburg Municipal Theatre ; Columbia University, Graduate School of Architecture and Planning, lecture and exhibition posters
Typographic hierarchy : Case study: Identification of the AIDS virus ; Case study: Beginning of communism in Cuba ; Case study: Levi's become fashion ; Case study: "If the glove don't fit, you must acquit."