Contrast + Balance
Contrast
This concert poster for Talking Heads uses type contrast to establish a clear visual hierarchy. The band's name appears at the top in large, bold letters, making it the first thing viewers notice. In contrast, the event details at the bottom use a contrasting font and are much smaller and denser, encouraging viewers to read them only after identifying the performer. The design also contrasts the rough, hand-drawn/printed appearance of the headline with the more structured informational text below. These differences help guide the viewer's eye through the poster and make the most important information stand out.
The cover of Unknown Pleasures uses value contrast through its simple black-and-white design, which has made it a classic. The bright white waveform lines stand out sharply against the black background, creating a strong focal point despite the minimal composition. The contrast between positive and negative space makes the image visually striking and memorable. This design demonstrates how contrast can create emphasis without relying on color or complex imagery.
This poster for the movie Coraline uses character contrast to create tension and intrigue. Coraline appears frightened and vulnerable while the Other Mother and Other Father appear cheerful and welcoming. The contrast between Coraline's normal eyes and the button eyes of the adults immediately signals that something is wrong. Although the setting appears warm and inviting, the expressions and button eyes create a sense of danger beneath the surface. This contrast helps communicate the film's themes of appearance versus reality.
3 Posters - Balance
I used asymmetrical balance by placing larger visual elements on one side of the design and balancing them with text and smaller graphics on the other side. This creates a more dynamic and energetic composition while still feeling visually balanced.
I used symmetrical balance here by placing the main elements in the center of the page and mirroring decorative elements on both sides. This creates a stable, organized design that is easy to read and gives the invitation a more formal appearance.
I used radial balance by placing a vinyl record in the center of the design and arranging decorative elements around it. The viewer's eye is naturally drawn toward the center, creating a strong focal point and reinforcing the 80s music theme.
I created three invitations for the same 80s-themed party. Each design demonstrates a different type of balance: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial. Using the same theme allowed me to focus on how different balance principles affect the overall composition and visual impact of the design.