Art is something that evolves with the times, and trends are known to vanish as quickly as they appear. When it comes to graphic design, what might have been trending in 2017 may already be considered a thing of the past. That’s why you need to stay in the now, because no one wants to create boring, tired designs.
Here are the top 5 graphic design trends you need to know:
Glitched & Ruined Effects
2018 is bringing with it a lot of distortion—in more ways than one. Within graphic design, that dissonance is seen in the glitch effect and ruined effect. Both involve changing an ideal photo into something else using elements that were once deemed tasteless or erroneous. The glitch effect, for example, may take blur, pixelation, and broken bands of color and use them as a design element. Ruined effects are elements like breaking, fading, tearing, and scratching.
Negative Space
In terms of aesthetics, using the negative space for design is a certain win when it comes to developing a captivating picture or evoking emotion. How will you use the distinct shapes and lines of the negative space? What images can enter such a truly unique frame. The possibilities are endless, so tailor it to your needs.
Double Exposure & Light
Though double exposure has been a favorite of graphic designers for many years now, 2018 is seeing a rise in the technique. For example, some designers are utilizing the “Double Exposure Duotone” effect by double the image or overlapping two different images in two separate colours. Double Light is also popular now. This is done by creating two or three sources of different colored shadows or light (also known as color splitting).
Typography Elements
Letters are king in graphic design; and so it makes sense why creative typography is a trend that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. For example, cropped typography, where pieces of the letters are erased, is making waves, because the completed product is both eye-catching and easy to read. Another fad happens to be fusing typography with real life objects, such as using people to complete or blend into segments of the letters.
You shouldn’t forget about negative space typography either. Blend two trending elements into one!
Bright Colors and Gradients
2018 is all about making things pop, and bright colors are perfect for the task. Think in terms of neons, metallics, and gradients. Presently, 3D design is being blended with typography and other graphic design components to create stunning visuals like golden smoke and pops of volume. Color transitions or gradients, much like the kind used in the Instagram logo, add a touch of whimsy to the design.
Conclusion
Graphic design is transforming. With new techniques, bright colors, and beautiful 3D elements, the latest trends are likely going to make art history. Be sure to utilize the trends listed above in your own designs, so you too can fabricate something that captures people’s attention and communicates your artistic vision to the world.