THEORY: THE DOT WITHIN AN IMAGE

THE DOT WITHIN AN IMAGE

The expressive qualities of the dot.

The dot is the smallest visual element of a drawing.

There are two types of dots:

 -     the geometric dot   :the point where two straight lines cross each other.

-     the graphic dot (or graphic symbol) : is the simplest element using in drawing shapes.

Dots have expressive value

If we place many dots into a space in an organised fashion, we can use them to express complex feelings.

We can create abstract or realistic images with dots.

We can shade images to give them a sense of volume.

We can express our feelings by using dots to colour an image.

Images are made up of dots

All images can be broken down into (= reduced to the basic elements)  dots.

We must therefore decide the way we want to distribute dots on a surface when we create an image.

There are infinite ways to create an image from dots, by using different shapes, colours and sizes.

We can use one dot as an abstract element to invent forms not found in the real world.

But we can also use the dot to create realistic objects, landscapes, people etc.

Using dots for shading

We can use dots to give objects shape, volume and sense of depth.

Dots are close together make darker areas; dots that are farther apart make lighter ones.

We can show the contours of objects and give them a sense of volume by separating dots or placing them closer together.