Syllabus

Introduction to Basic Elements of Design – Line, texture, colour, form, symmetry, balance, scale, mass, unity and variety.

Concepts of Visual Language and Design – Visual design principles, Gestalt Laws, composition, figure-ground relationship, and negative space.

Symmetry and Pattern Generation – Use of symmetry, generation of patterns and textures using simple elements.

Typography and Graphic Composition – Introduction to typography and fonts, use of grids in graphic composition.

Color Theory and Applications – Colour circle, colour combinations and dimensions (hue, value, chroma), colour meanings in traditions, and psychological use of colours.

To introduce students to the fundamental elements and principles of design, enabling them to understand and apply concepts like line, texture, color, form, and composition in visual contexts.

To develop analytical skills for evaluating visual designs, including Gestalt principles, symmetry, and figure-ground relationships, in everyday and professional environments.

To explore pattern generation, typography, grids, and color theory, fostering the ability to create unified and varied compositions.

To examine the cultural, psychological, and communicative implications of design choices, particularly in color and visual hierarchy, for effective design solutions.

To synthesize typography, grid systems, and color theory principles to develop cohesive design solutions that effectively communicate intended messages across various media formats.

Students will be able to critically assess visual designs in their everyday environment, articulating how the interaction of various design principles contributes to the effectiveness of the communication.

Students will be able to analyze and articulate the fundamental elements of design (line, texture, color, form) and their relationships in both historical and contemporary visual compositions.

Students will be able to generate complex patterns and textures using basic design elements, demonstrating their ability to manipulate symmetry, scale, and repetition to create unified yet varied compositions.

Students will be able to evaluate the psychological and cultural implications of color choices in design work, incorporating this understanding to create culturally sensitive and emotionally resonant visual compositions.

Students will be able to apply Gestalt principles and figure-ground relationships to create effective visual hierarchies in their design work.

Students will be able to synthesize typography, grid systems, and color theory principles to develop cohesive design solutions that effectively communicate intended messages across various media formats.

David A. Lauer, Stephen Pentak, Design Basics, Cengage Learning , A foundational text presenting art and design fundamentals in accessible two- to four-page spreads, covering elements like line, texture, color, and form, along with principles such as balance, unity, and composition; ideal for beginners to refer to while working on projects

Josef Albers, The Interaction of Color, Yale University Press , A classic exploration of color theory through exercises and examples, focusing on how colors interact, their relativity, and perceptual effects; essential for understanding hue, value, chroma, and psychological implications

Noël Riley, The Elements of Design, Mitchell Beazley , A practical encyclopedia tracing design trends and stylistic elements in decorative arts from the Renaissance to the present, with thematic chapters on forms, patterns, and visual elements; useful for historical context and inspiration

Josef Müller-Brockmann, Grid Systems in Graphic Design, Niggli Verlag , A visual communication manual detailing the use of grids for typographers, graphic designers, and three-dimensional designers; provides practical guidance on structured composition and layout

International Journal of Art & Design Education – A peer-reviewed journal focusing on art and design pedagogy, including studies on elements and principles of design.

The Design Journal – An international publication exploring design theory, practice, and visual principles in graphic and industrial design.

International Conference on Design Principles & Practices – An annual conference discussing design education, visual communication, and innovative practices.