The brief

Using only an image of a light bulb, the word “light bulb”, and a block of colour of your choice, create different designs that explore visual dynamics.

Implementing the project

Throughout this exercise, I will use Adobe Photoshop to manipulate the above elements while considering composition.  I will crop the design and try each piece in a different size.  I will use white space and size the block of colour to create a sense of space.  I will also rotate, layer, and overlap elements.

I am choosing a mid-tone colour, turquoise, to create different tones in this design.  I already have the white background and the black text.  I will, at times, change the text to white to create a lighter-looking text.  I am working with the word “light”, so it will be fitting to have it in a light tone.  I am using an Adobe font calledMuseo Sans Rounded, 700 weight.  

Reflecting on my work

I have taken the best out of 38 designs.  Some designs were similar with slight variations, and others were fresh new ideas.  The ideas only really start flowing after the first eight designs.  

In design 8, I created tension by having part of the word “bulb” hanging off the block, drawing attention to that area by creating a hierarchy.  I placed the globe in design 12, showing the direction in which the light shines (white side of the canvas).  I block part of the words out in designs 4, 11, 14 and 20 to create a layering effect.  I made sure the words were still legible.  I created space by layering elements in designs 1, 4, 9, and 14.  While creating the layouts and placing the elements, I kept the rule of thirds in mind.

Overall, this was an enlightening exercise (pardon the pun).  I enjoyed working within the limitation of three elements.  This exercise made me realise how important white space is and to manipulate push and pull in a competition.  My favourite designs are 4, 12 and 14.