Design Seminar

Harmony is the visually satisfying effect of combining similar or related elements.

Harmony in visual design means all parts of the visual image relate to and complement each other.

Visual harmony is achieved through a balance of unity and variety. That can mean choosing complementary or analogous color schemes to achieve color harmony, or choosing one typeface or contrasting but not conflicting styles. 

A common trait between elements could be texture, patterns, color, shape or size.

Harmony in design helps bring about unity. All harmony and no contrast, however, can become monotonous. A balance must be struck between areas of harmony and areas of contrast.

Harmony pulls the pieces of a visual image together.

The principles of harmony and contrast seem completely contradictory, but it is the balance between these two that is vital to the success of any design.

Try and keep the area of contrast smaller than the harmonious area you wish to relieve.

Understatement is usually better - sometimes just a tiny contrasting mark is all that is needed.

A limited palette will keep a tight color harmony.

Tonal contrast then becomes the main tool for emphasizing a focal point

Harmony can be achieved through repetition.

Repetition reemphasizes visual units, connecting parts and creating an area of attention.

Patterns or shapes can help achieve harmony.

By repeating patterns in an interesting arrangement, the overall visual image comes together.

Two or more identical, or near identical elements are not only an expression of visual agreement, but the repetition also helps to catch and draw the eye into your design.

That doesn’t mean your design will look fabulous just by adding two similar items though, your choice of what to repeat is important.

Harmony can be achieved through rhythm. Rhythm is the flow depicted in a visual. Rhythm helps direct eye movement.

Using the paper given to you, the shapes provided and colored pencils, create a graphic design. Be creative.

This square will become your “quilt block”.

As a class, decide the layout of your “quilt blocks” to create your class quilt design.

When joined with the rest of the “quilt blocks” from your class, you will create harmony through unity and variety.

http://designelementsandprinciples.com/harmony2.htm

http://www.educ.kent.edu/community/vlo/design/principles/harmony/index.html

http://www.sitepoint.com/harmony-in-design-part-2-repetition/

http://www.sitepoint.com/new-series-harmony-in-design/