Font · Symbols · Layout Design

Author: Dang Sheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-02-01
Features: This textbook is designed for art and design majors. We have attempted bold changes and adjustments in the content and structure of the course, adhering to the principle of abandoning the teaching model centered on "writing artistic calligraphy" and focusing instead on the comprehensive handling of texts and creative expression through textual symbols. The book introduces the basic knowledge of Chinese and Western printing fonts, emphasizes the principles and methods of layout design, and also covers the visual communication functions and symbolic meanings of text and graphic symbols. Considering the nature of the course, the authors believe that the main focus should be on teaching foundational knowledge and cultivating thinking methods. For higher-level specialized knowledge and more complex issues in design practice, they are either omitted or included within the established framework. Additionally, one of the principles we strive to uphold is avoiding empty theoretical elaborations and overly comprehensive categorical analyses. Modern design has developed to a point where there are numerous schools and complex theories. Listing various styles or vaguely discussing "the laws of formal beauty" would not only be of little help to beginners but could also overwhelm them. In light of this, the book can only focus on introducing standardized and actionable procedures and methods, making it difficult to cover everything else. It is believed that only through "necessity" can one move toward "freedom."