Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Pictorialization
When type becomes a representation of a real-world object, or takes on the qual-
ities of something from actual experience, it has been pictorialized. In illustrative pictorialization,
forms are drawn to appear to be made out of a recognizable material or to form part of a recogniz-
able object.
Pictorial Inclusion
Illustrative elements brought into the type forms so that they interact with its
strokes or counterforms are said to be
included.
The type retains its essential form, but the pictorial
matter is integrated by reversing out of the type or by replacing the counterforms within or between
the letters.
Form Substitution
Replacing a type form with a recognizable object or another symbol is referred
to as a substitution. Many real-world objects share visual structure with letters. Circular objects
are often substituted for a letter O, for example. Images aren't the only elements that may be sub-
stituted for a type form—replacing a letter with another character is also a common strategy for
substitution.
Form Alteration
Changing the structural characteristics of type elements to communicate a non-
literal idea is another strategy. Distorting letter shapes or proportions in an adjective, for example,
can change the quality of its description. Such alteration may have a syntactic quality as well;
setting the word “exaggerated” with distorted, oversized Gs exploits their sound and the word's
meaning.
