Graphic Design Basics
Welcome to this graphic design basics course where you will learn everything you need to know
to get started. My name is Laura Keung, and I have been a professional graphic designer for 15
years. Graphic design is the creation of visual content with a communication purpose. In this
course, we will cover the history of graphic design, design principles, color theory, vocabulary,
and the elements of typography.
History of Graphic Design
Cave painting in prehistoric times (38,000 BC)
Sumerians created the first written languages (3,000 BCE)
China used printing methods (200 AD)
Johannes Gutenberg developed movable type and printing press (15th century)
Industrial revolution brought new printing technologies (1760-1840)
Art movements influenced design trends (Bauhaus, Swiss design, postmodernism)
Embrace of the digital era (1950s)
Basics of Graphic Design
Graphic design is composed of different basic principles, including:
Balance: creating stability and visual weight
Unity: harmonizing all elements in a design
Contrast: creating visual hierarchies through differences
Repetition: using repeated elements for consistency
Pattern: repetition of multiple design elements
Rhythm: visual tempo and organized movement
Movement: guiding the viewer's eyes through the composition
Emphasis: drawing attention to specific design elements
Color Theory and Typography
In addition to the basic principles, we will cover color theory and the elements of typography.
These are essential for effective communication in graphic design.
The Role of a Graphic Designer
A graphic designer is primarily concerned with applying design principles for communication.
The goal is to organize and clarify information, tell a story, and connect with people in a
meaningful way.
Welcome to this graphic design basics course where you will learn everything you need to know
to get started. My name is Laura Keung, and I have been a professional graphic designer for 15
years. Graphic design is the creation of visual content with a communication purpose. In this
course, we will cover the history of graphic design, design principles, color theory, vocabulary,
and the elements of typography.
History of Graphic Design
Cave painting in prehistoric times (38,000 BC)
Sumerians created the first written languages (3,000 BCE)
China used printing methods (200 AD)
Johannes Gutenberg developed movable type and printing press (15th century)
Industrial revolution brought new printing technologies (1760-1840)
Art movements influenced design trends (Bauhaus, Swiss design, postmodernism)
Embrace of the digital era (1950s)
Basics of Graphic Design
Graphic design is composed of different basic principles, including:
Balance: creating stability and visual weight
Unity: harmonizing all elements in a design
Contrast: creating visual hierarchies through differences
Repetition: using repeated elements for consistency
Pattern: repetition of multiple design elements
Rhythm: visual tempo and organized movement
Movement: guiding the viewer's eyes through the composition
Emphasis: drawing attention to specific design elements
Color Theory and Typography
In addition to the basic principles, we will cover color theory and the elements of typography.
These are essential for effective communication in graphic design.
The Role of a Graphic Designer
A graphic designer is primarily concerned with applying design principles for communication.
The goal is to organize and clarify information, tell a story, and connect with people in a
meaningful way.
