Hoffman's ideas on shape

The Dot

> Must be understood in a very broad sense
> Any shape with a centre can be perceived as a dot
> Even when the dot expands it is still a dot
> Composition is important
> Can easily be moved
> Colour can be changed easily
> If a small dot is put in the centre of a square it demands to be felt
> A large dot is disruptive if the background space is not big enough
> A large background can overwhelm a small dot
> The dot radiates power
> If the dot is displaced from the centre it becomes unsettled
> Placing two dot together they determine what will happen on the plane
> They may take a linear path when arranged appropriately
> A large number of dots creates a rich variety of combinations such as vertical/ horizontal lines, grouping, scattering and massing
> An extra dimension makes the dot spherical which adds more weight and power
> Gets more attention

The Line

> The connecting link
> Dots create an invisible line
> Can be imagined
> An independant force
> Made up of dots so small you can no longer identify them
> Can only be created using an appropriate tool such as a brush or pen
> The line is dependant on the dot
> Represents movement
> Dynamic by nature
> It can be continued indefinitely in either direction
> It has already gone through a process of growth
> Plays an important part in construction
> If a thin line is repeated at constant intervals it produces a solid grey effect
> Removing individual lined from a grid then new one appear
> Black line and white line are always independent
> Two straight parallel lines create a third one in between them
> Space in between them is important
> Increasing distance between the lines thickens the line in-between
> Similar to the dot the line doesn't change its nature
> When expanded it quickly passes our field of vision
> If it is too thick the eyes see it as a plane

Confrontation

> Encounters between dissimilar elements within compositions containing dots or lines can only be readily followed even if they involve complicated arrangements and formations.
> compositions depend on contrast
>  Bringing together two dissimilar things in a harmonious way
> Embarking upon new trains of thought
> The meeting of a square and circler within a predetermined field of action is a basic example
> Combining design and lettering epitomises harmony, the difficult task of unifying two different kinds of graphic system
> Writing is a means of communication built up from linear geometrical sign which we as humans understand on the basis of mutual agreement
> Pictures on the other hand contain an inherent message and speak to us directly
> Pictures radiate movement, tone and forces
> Requires great skill and knowledge in order to combine image and lettering
> Movable letters were introduced through letter press, it is versatile

Letters and Signs

> We are so used to seeing letter forms we fail to see the construction of them
> They for an important part of our communication
> People working with letter forms have an increased responsibility