Figuring out how to distinguish forms from their backgrounds is a fundamental concept in graphic design. This process is known as figure-ground organization, and Adobe Illustrator provides a handy tool to visualize it: the figure-ground map. Today, we'll explore how to create a figure-ground map in Adobe Illustrator, a skill that will not only enhance your design understanding but also breathe life into your projects.
Before we dive into the steps, let's briefly understand what a figure-ground map is. In essence, it's a visual representation where everything is either a figure (the subject of interest) or ground (the background). By creating a figure-ground map, we can isolate our focal points and create a clear hierarchy in our design.
Understanding Your Design
Before you start creating a figure-ground map, you need to be clear about your design's focal points. Ask yourself: What's the most important element in my design? What should grab the viewer's attention first? The answers to these questions will help you decide what should be the 'figure' and what should be the 'ground'.
For this tutorial, let's consider a simple design of a coffee mug with a heart on it. The coffee mug will be our 'figure', and everything else will be the 'ground'.
Getting Started in Adobe Illustrator
Open Adobe Illustrator and create a new document. For simplicity, keep the artboard size manageable, like 8.5 x 11 inches. We'll be using a single color for our figure and ground, so no need to worry about color modes yet.
Creating the Figure
Using the Pen Tool (P) or Shape Tools, create the shape of your figure. In our case, that's a simple coffee mug. Remember to keep it as the top layer in your Layers panel for now.
The goal here is not to create a perfect, final version of your figure but to have a working shape that clearly marks out your subject. You can always refine it later.
Identifying the Ground
Next, create another layer and name it 'Ground'. Now, use whatever is left on the artboard as your ground. In our example, this would be everything else outside the mug.
You might think this step is straightforward, but it's crucial. The ground is just as important as the figure, as it helps to highlight and frame your subject. Treat it with the same care and consideration.
Creating the Map
Now that you have your figure and ground defined, it's time to create the map. First, lock the 'Ground' layer. Then, select the 'Figure' layer and add a new effect to it by going to 'Effect' > 'Illustrator Effects' > 'Strokes & Effects' > 'Outline' > 'Make Opacity 0%'.
This effect essentially creates a silhouette of your figure, turning it into an opaque shape. To make it Northwest, expand the effect by going to 'Object' > 'Expand Appearance'. Now, you should have a figure with no fill but an outline, sitting atop the ground.
Finalizing the Figure
With both the figure and ground now clearly defined, you can lock the 'Figure' layer and move on to refine it. You might want to change the color, opacity, or even form of your figure. Do the same for the ground, ensuring that everything complements and enhances your figure.
Remember, the goal of a figure-ground organization is not to create a complex, finalized design at this stage. It's to establish a clear hierarchy, One that you can build upon in the next stages of your design process.
The ability to create clear figure-ground relationships is a powerful tool in any designer's toolkit. It's not just about making visuals look good; it's about guiding the viewer's eye, telling a story, and creating a narrative. So go ahead, practice creating figure-ground maps, and watch as your designs become more engaging and effective.