Graphic design is combining different parts to create a pleasing, cohesive unit. There are certain aspects of design that are used to create an aesthetic that draws people in, such as color, shape, size, font, and space. Oftentimes, people don’t consider the use and impact of space, such as backgrounds and emptiness. If not considered by the designer, space can be wasted potential. It is more often that space is seen but not acknowledged by the viewer. It is the job of the designer to work through the design process to find the best way to portray what they want or need to.
It’s necessary to make a design draw the viewer in with visual stimulation. This could be a problem, however, if too much is added and the design becomes chaotic.
“The job is not to fill in all the space in order to impress the reader with sheer quantity of information. That will just overwhelm the reader with overfullness”.
The point of design is not to fill up the whole space, it’s to add the necessary information in an accessible and appealing way.
Empty space can be the background in the design, that isn’t as noticeable and doesn’t serve too much of a direct purpose. Active space would be a part of the design that has a purpose, such as in reversible figure ground. One part of the design may stand out more, but the other color, the background, can serve a purpose if used and shaped correctly. It’s like if you had an empty shelf in your room. Nothing on it makes it empty, unused. But use it to display your favorite books, art, or trinkets, and it has become active space. Having space is a good way to attract a reader, and the designer must find the right balance between space and content.
