Design Geometry – A Study on Proportion and Composition

Author: [US] Kimberly Elam, translated by Li Leshan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-08-01
Features: "Design Geometry" uses its detailed diagrams not only to explain how measurement science provides information and even creates beauty in nature and artworks, but more importantly, how to apply these techniques to create beauty in our own designs. What do pine cones, salmon, and the human body have in common? They all follow various natural proportion laws, which serve as the fundamental starting point for the works of many artists and designers, even their entire body of work. Kimberly Elam reveals the mysterious relationship between mathematics and beauty in these inspiring natural systems. She takes us into the magical realm of geometry—golden ratio, perfect proportions, and the Fibonacci sequence—and explains complex mathematical concepts in plain language. From Jan Chikerd's posters to the Barcelona Chair to the new Volkswagen Beetle, through these works, Elam shows us how symmetry, order, and visual balance are behind design. "Design Geometry" uses its detailed diagrams not only to explain how measurement science provides information and even creates beauty in nature and artworks, but more importantly, how to apply these techniques to create beauty in our own designs. Kimberly Elam is the Director of the Graphic and Interactive Systems program at the School of Art and Design at Ringling College of Art and Design.