Chapter 1: Objects in Icons and Symbols
Key Concepts (with Examples):
Icon
An icon is a simplified, easily recognizable image used to represent
objects, actions, or ideas, especially in digital or graphic design contexts.
Icons reduce the visual complexity of the object.
Example: A mobile phone icon for calling app, a trash bin icon for
deleting files.
Symbol
A symbol is a visual or graphic representation that stands for a deeper
concept, belief, or emotion. Symbols often go beyond their literal
meaning and are linked to culture or tradition.
Example: The wheel in the Indian flag (Ashoka Chakra) stands for time,
progress, and law.
Signage
Signage refers to any visual graphic or sign placed in public spaces to
communicate instructions, information, or directions. Signage may
include pictograms, text, or both.
Example: A restroom sign using male/female pictograms , an 'Exit'
board in a hall.
Pictogram
A pictogram (or pictograph) is a very simple image representing an
object or action, used to communicate quickly without the use of words.
It is often used in public signage and maps.
Example: A person walking icon for pedestrian crossing, or spoon & fork
for a food zone.
Logo
A logo is a unique design, mark, or symbol that represents a company,
brand, or organization. It helps in identity and brand recognition.
, Emblem
An emblem is a detailed symbol or image that officially represents an
institution, country, or authority. Often found on flags, certificates, or
uniforms.
Example: National Emblem of India with lions , school badges or scout
crests.
Visual Techniques in Drawing:
Positive Space
The area in an artwork that contains the main subject or object being
drawn.
Negative Space
The empty or background space around and between the subject(s) of
an image.
Contour Drawing
A line drawing that represents the edges or outline of an object without
internal detail.
Silhouette
A filled-in shape of an object, usually dark, showing only the outline and
no internal features.
Cross-Hatching
A shading method using intersecting sets of parallel lines to create light
and dark areas.
Stippling
A technique of shading using small dots. Densely packed dots create
darker tones.
Key Concepts (with Examples):
Icon
An icon is a simplified, easily recognizable image used to represent
objects, actions, or ideas, especially in digital or graphic design contexts.
Icons reduce the visual complexity of the object.
Example: A mobile phone icon for calling app, a trash bin icon for
deleting files.
Symbol
A symbol is a visual or graphic representation that stands for a deeper
concept, belief, or emotion. Symbols often go beyond their literal
meaning and are linked to culture or tradition.
Example: The wheel in the Indian flag (Ashoka Chakra) stands for time,
progress, and law.
Signage
Signage refers to any visual graphic or sign placed in public spaces to
communicate instructions, information, or directions. Signage may
include pictograms, text, or both.
Example: A restroom sign using male/female pictograms , an 'Exit'
board in a hall.
Pictogram
A pictogram (or pictograph) is a very simple image representing an
object or action, used to communicate quickly without the use of words.
It is often used in public signage and maps.
Example: A person walking icon for pedestrian crossing, or spoon & fork
for a food zone.
Logo
A logo is a unique design, mark, or symbol that represents a company,
brand, or organization. It helps in identity and brand recognition.
, Emblem
An emblem is a detailed symbol or image that officially represents an
institution, country, or authority. Often found on flags, certificates, or
uniforms.
Example: National Emblem of India with lions , school badges or scout
crests.
Visual Techniques in Drawing:
Positive Space
The area in an artwork that contains the main subject or object being
drawn.
Negative Space
The empty or background space around and between the subject(s) of
an image.
Contour Drawing
A line drawing that represents the edges or outline of an object without
internal detail.
Silhouette
A filled-in shape of an object, usually dark, showing only the outline and
no internal features.
Cross-Hatching
A shading method using intersecting sets of parallel lines to create light
and dark areas.
Stippling
A technique of shading using small dots. Densely packed dots create
darker tones.
