Pure C.R.A.P.

Today, kids, we will be examining the C.R.A.P method of design (being, contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity).

Juha M. Kinnunen

http://juhamkinnunen.com/photography/pofo/JPEG/turku.jpg

This photo consists of the four elements of CRAP because of the contrast between the dark street lamps and the bright orange walls. The windows and cobblestone repeat themselves across the picture, which makes your eyes follow the picture to the end of the alley (which also serves as an element of alignment). Proximity is exemplified by the row houses one side of the photograph, while being contrasted by the street lights on the opposite side of the houses.

Chris Hall

http://www.crownandanchortattoo.com/chrisart.html

This piece embodies the four CRAP principals, firstly because of the striking contrast between the soft pinks and greens and the dark browns and gold. The piece has a whimsical feel that is repeated throughout, mainly due to the pink ribbon wrapped around the locket. This creates a sense of alignment. Our eye follows the ribbon, and in turn, we experience the whole picture piece by piece. Given the subject matter is a lock and key, this picture exemplifies proximity since the two elements are together as they logically should be.

Bob Tyrrell

http://bobtyrrell.com/galleries/index.php?album=Fine_Art

This painting exhibits the CRAP method of design. For starters, there is a strong contrast in the faces of the subjects, namely Frankenstien. The dramatic contrast adds to the gloomy feel of the piece. The lightning serves the purpose of both repetition and alignment, simultaneously created a sense of unity within the piece and drawing the eye along the piece. The subjects of the piece of clustered together towards the centre, making them the focus of the piece. They are somewhat segregated from the lightning which acts as more of a guide for where the eye should look.

Shepard Fairey

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a9/Barack_Obama_Hope_poster.svg/180px-Barack_Obama_Hope_poster.svg.png

This picture is a prime example of a piece that employs all facets of the CRAP method of design. The colours create an extremely strong contrast that almost leaps off the page. The red, white and blue is repeated to create a strong sense of patriotism, with the cartoony line-work creating a sense of flow and alignment in the picture. Finally, proximity is very evident, as a strong distinction between text space and portrait space has been made at the bottom of the picture where “HOPE” is.

And thus concludes my lesson on CRAP, kids. Next week join me when I don't have the black plague and will hopefully have more insightful, riveting blog posts.

-Sinead