Homework 3 Emphasis

1. Why is it important to design the positive and the negative shapes of a composition?
   
   The negative shape can make a figure look dynamic or static based on its location in an image. It also helps create illusions that appear to the eye to make it more interesting.
   
   
2. What is the difference between representational shapes and abstract shapes?
   
   Representational shapes are derived from specific subject matter and strongly based on direct observation. Abstract shapes are derived from visual reality but are distilled or transformed, reducing their resemblance to the original source.
   
   
3. What are some of the ways emphasis can be achieved?
   
   Create focal points in your image to give it emphasis. Emphasis by isolation tends to stand out when the focal point is placed where it breaks from the norm. Also emphasis can be drawn out by placement and where something is placed in your composition. Contrast also helps it when two or more forces operate in opposition.
   
4. What kind of subjects attracts attention?
   
   The scaling of an object in comparison to it's surroundings, also the shape and color have alot to do with what attracts attention.
   
   
5. What happens when there are too many focal points?
   
   Your eye doesn't know what to look at and the drawing doesn't stand out as much as it would if it had a major focal point.
   
   
6. Why is emphasis important, especially for graphic designers?
   
   It's important because it gives prominence to part of a design.
   
   
7. Which is more important: a strong focal point or unity?
   
   They are equally important. You want unity in your drawing so that things flow together but you also want a focal point to catch the viewers attention.