Here’s a recent poster design for a local church. Dual pianist compositions were to be a part of the concert and that is the basic design element in the poster…two grand pianos head to head. The abstract keys at both ends gives the poster a solid bracket for the text to stand within.
The information is displayed in relationships. For non-designers, that means grouping words with other words that go together in a logical thought sequence. Group words so they support each other. A “free concert” is further explained by “free will offering,“ for example. For another, the time and date are dominate over the location but they definitely belong together.
Certain phrases, on the other hand, should stand alone and not have a relationship with one another. When this happens, leave a little space between phrases when appropriate. Knowing the limited text and a large vertical area to utilize, I chose the use of space between lines of text. The space act as a pause for the reader. Hence the slight pause (space) above and below the title. Of course, the point size contrast also sets the title apart from everything else.
All the white text is located in an efficient area. There is no reason to try and spread everything out the entire width. Again, because I wanted to take advantage of the vertical area available. The curves of the piano graphic transports the eye across the page. All the text is aligned to the left, adding order to a slightly complex graphic background. The original empty area to the left was solved by inserting a type graphic at right angle to everything else, adding contrast and interest to all other elements. The sideways font gives the poster a slight oriental feel, signifying the concert will be intriguing, with maybe a few surprises.
