Design Thinking & Process

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the Design Thinking & Process lecture.

Value

The relative lightness or darkness of a hue, represented on a grey scale from 100% white to 100% black.

Value contrast

The relationship between areas of dark and light values, which can be high (dramatic shifts) or low (gradual shifts).

Volume

The three-dimensional illusion of height, width, and depth on a two-dimensional surface.

Pattern

The repetition of a visual element or module in a regular and anticipated sequence.

Implied texture

When an object or image is drawn to resemble actual texture.

Positive shape

Any shape or object distinguishable from the background, typically visually active.

Negative space

Unoccupied area surrounding objects or figures in a composition, usually with little or no visual activity.

Abstraction

The process of simplifying, exaggerating, or departing from direct representation of reality to emphasize formal elements.

Composition

The overall arrangement and organization of visual elements on a two-dimensional surface.

Picture plane

The two-dimensional surface on which shapes are organized into a composition.

Rule of thirds

The concept that states compositions should be divided into nine quadrants for well-balanced design.

Craftsmanship

The quality of workmanship of tools, mediums, or techniques.

Collage

An artwork created by assembling and pasting various materials onto a two-dimensional surface.

Gestalt

The concept that the whole of a composition is greater than the summation of its parts.

Focal point

The part of a composition that initially attracts the viewer and encourages further scrutiny.

Line

Documentation of a moving point, can be actual, implied, or psychic.

Hatching

A shading technique using closely drawn parallel lines to indicate value.

Cross-hatching

A shading technique involving hatched lines drawn at right angles to one another.

Shape

The surface area of a two-dimensional form.

Proportion

Size comparisons between two parts of a composition or object.

Unity / Harmony

Creates a sense of oneness or wholeness in an artwork.

Variety

Introduces diversity and interest through contrasts in color, shape, or texture.

Balance

Achieves visual equilibrium which can be symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial.

Movement / Dynamism

Directs the viewer’s eye through the composition.

Rhythm & Repetition

Uses recurring elements to create a visual beat or sense of movement.

Dynamism

Invests a sense of time passing and movement in a design.