Visual Information

Here are three picture which each represent a certain level of designed visual information. 

The first example is---"Representational" level

Source: http://www.linesandcolors.com/2005/08/22/art-renewal-center/

This painting is strongly representational.  We can see and recognize the world in it: there is a visual reality. It is expressed by photographic techniques to communicate the world. Also, there is a believable environment, such as a boat, trees, water, grasses and so on. Every single element seems to be a real object, representational.

The next example is ---"Symbolic" level

Source: http://nyicreation.tripod.com/

This is a symbolic word or code used in an ancient age (Unfortunately, I do not know where it was used or found.) There is a meaning, which indicates a certain message or information. Its structure is simple, indeed. But, it is symbol of something to communicate at the same time, as it appears to be the sun, tree, or human being (at least I can see it in that way.)

The final example is --- "Abstract" level" 

source: http://zacharybrown.wordpress.com/2008/05/

This is abstract image, which represent "Morning." I could see the morning sky, the moon, the sun, and those lightning. Although all of these elements represent a certain object, they are totally not realistic details which does not happen ever. This picture more focus on its mood, tone, and symbols. There is a high contrast between objects and background. 

visual techniques

Here is two example of the field which I am interested in.

Source: http://www.paul-rand.com/posters.shtml

Poster Design

Balance
Simplicity
Unity
Economy
Boldness (graphic) Subtlety (Typo)
Accent
Flatness
Singularity

Source: http://thelitconnection.wordpress.com/2008/05/28/cover-art-deja-vu/

Book Cover Design

Balance
Symmetry
Irregularity
Fragmentation
Subtlety
Accuracy
Depth

Even though both examples consist of the same visual techniques, they are quite different. This is because of their combination of such a visual technique. They are both well-balanced, with invisible center axis suspending right and left sides. However, as their basic elements, while one is very flat and simple image (caused by techniques such as Unity and Simplicity), another is actual picture with depth and pretty much a lot of things going on. This is effected by lightning and shading, and makes each of them natural appearance or not. Also, despite of that they includes subtle typography, their first impression is different because their primary image are opposite; Subtlety vs. Boldness. The first picture (Boldness) is an obvious presentation with confidence, whereas later one (Subtlety) is very delicate picture, which causes to express their characteristics of contents.