Objects on my desk_ Information graphic

But before I could create the information graphic „Designed Art“, I needed to gain a better understanding of data visualisation.

For my first task, I chose to analyse the objects on my desk. For this information graphic, I wanted to consider the materials the objects are made of, whether they contain any liquids, and if so, how much.

In short, the information graphic illustrates how I use and have been using these objects.

I decided to take it a step further by highlighting with circles how long I have owned and used each object. Next, I visualised the location of the objects on my desk and placed visual elements representing the objects inside a square.

Objects on my desk_ Learnings

The key is simplicity. Initially, I wanted to demonstrate visually whether an object contained other materials or objects. This is a difficult task, especially when you have to consider objects such as a keyboard and a computer mouse. So, I decided to focus only on liquids, as these are „added“ materials and easy to visualise.

Also, I recommend refreshing your maths skills if you need to. Even as a designer, having a basic knowledge of mathematical principles can be helpful when designing information graphics.

Designed Art_ Information graphic

For the second task, I wanted to explore the intersection between design and art. Currently, I am struggling to determine how to utilise my skills in both fields. Should I combine them? Or should I use them separately? Am I both an artist and a designer? Or am I a designer who does artsy stuff?

Designed Art_ Visual system

To underline how complex this topic is, I created the following data graphic. I chose an illustration that combines design elements with my art. This illustration is part of a satirical Christmas card series that I produce every year. 

I decided to simplify the visual language by giving the lines a hierachy. They variate in colours and thickness, to highlight the importance of the connected topics.

This information graphic explores the overlap between my design and art, and how they are influenced by external factors and internal motivation.

Designed Art_ Inspirations

The information graphic is inspired by the „Network of Market Typologies Kigali“ by Anja Kerstin (2015), published in Schmiedeskamp.

And by „How to look at Modern Art in America“ by Ad Reinhardt. 

Both information graphics highlight complex structures and communicate topics that require to break them down into simpler elements in order to understand their complexity.

Designed Art_ Reflection

At first, I thought the infographic would be too complex and confusing. However, after applying some artistic principles to the graphic, I realised that art helps you to understand design more easily and quickly, which was surprising to me.

Well, I still don't have a clear answer if my design and art should be combined or not. But at least I see that it is possible to structure complexity, which is something I had not previously considered. However, I can tell you that combining art and design can create its own visual language. If you focus on just one of them, you will not be able to achieve this new visual language.