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Design: Abstract vs Symbolic

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Abstract design expresses ideas or feelings that tend to differ from what's normally found in physical form. Symbolic design communicates an idea or feeling with designs that may be realistic, decorative or abstract.

Abstract

Abstract design visualizes and creates things that may not exist in the physical world using cognitive processes such as imagination, logic or emotion. This typically results in radical designs. People tend to associate abstract design with minimalism but it can take any form and is often decorative.

Symbolic

Symbolic design is about communicating an idea, entity or emotion. Symbols such as company logos may be designed to be easy to interpret and recognize. In some cases, symbolic design is intended to be difficult to read out of a sense of secrecy, mystery or danger. Either way, symbolic designs often rely on analogy.
Abstract vs Symbolic
Abstract
Symbolic
Definition
Designs that expressing thoughts and emotions without reference to the physical world.
Designs that communicate visually often using analogy.

Design

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