Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
When a dot enters a space, it establishes an immediate relationship with the space; the proportion
of the dot to its surrounding area is the most important consideration; second is its relative position
to the edges of the space. The dot breaks the space in a neutral way, being weightless and internally
balanced, but it might already create noticeable differences in spatial areas if it is placed off center.
The centrally located dot is settled, comfortable, and static, but it dominates the space around it; as
it moves from the center, there is a shift in dominance—the background asserts itself and tension
arises.
Introducing a second dot shifts attention away from the relationship of the space to the interaction
of the two dots. They refer to each other and imply a structure—an invisible, connecting path that
splits space apart. As dots approach each other, the tension between them increases. If the space
between dots is just about zero, its presence assumes more importance than the dots themselves,
and even more importance relative to any other spatial interval. If the dots overlap, especially if
they are different sizes, the tension created by their closeness is somewhat relieved. However, a
new tension arises—the dichotomy of flat, graphic form and the appearance of three-dimensional
depth as one dot seemingly inhabits a foreground, and the other, a background position.
The closer the dots are to each other, the more powerful the sense of their unique identity as ob-
jects; the further apart, the more pronounced the sense of structure, induced by the invisible path
between them. Additional dots in close proximity to the pair, however, reduce the focus on iden-
tity and increase attention to their reciprocal relationship and thus, a sense of structure or meaning.
How far are the dots from each other? Is each dot the same distance from its counterparts? What
is their configuration, and what outer shape does it make? What does this shape signify?
