OUGD504 - Brief 3 - Research: Canons of Page Construction workshop

OUGD504: Brief 3: Type In Context

Research: Canons of Page Construction workshop

Following my research of grid systems I understand the importance of using grids to create consistently within a publication and the benefits of using a grid within my design development. This lead perfectly into a studio workshop analysing different canons of page construction, this allowed the physical trailing of canons and discussing their viability within the context of the brief with other students. I felt this was a worthwhile task adding to my knowledge of god systems and exploring historical examples that could be incorporated into my publication to ensure a styled continuity that will appeal to my target audience. 

The Golden Ratio

The golden ratio is a mathematical ratio that is often found in nature however can be applied to a range of creative processes such as sculpting painting and more relevantly; graphic design to create naturally pleasing designs. The Golden Ratio describes the relationship between two proportions and is uses the fibonacci sequence of a 1:1.61 ratio e.g: 

a to b = 1:1.618

a+b to a = 1:1.618

Creating the golden ratio proved difficult in practice due to small divisions, talking within a group we summarised that that the golden ration is good for keeping a strict order and can be applied effectively to web design however we felt the process was outdated and tedious and actually restricts the designer due to the control the grid places on the design. It was agreed that well-balanced effective deign can be created without the use of this system and felt it wasn't essential to our practice. 

Van De Graaf Canon

Researching alternative page canons I was introduced to the Van De Graaf canon  also known as the "secret canon". The Van de Graaf canon which is used in book design to divide a page in aesthetically engaging proportions that are said to be harmonious. The page proportions are commonly a  2:3 ratio which is most effective. In this canon the text area and page size are of same proportions, and the height of the text area equals the page width.

In practice I found this canon much more linear and logical creating a grid system that I could see myself using in the future. Talking to other students we felt that this grid system was far more engaging as a designer as it is not as strict as the golden ration and still allows for a creative response while remaining consistent within the grid.