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      Landscapes in Graphic Communication

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can review the range of ways graphic designers have been inspired by landscapes.

      Key learning points

      1. Landscapes offer a rich tapestry of colours, textures and forms that designers can take inspiration from.
      2. Landscapes let graphic designers explore scale, perspective and composition from vast vistas to intimate details.
      3. Designers can use landscapes to celebrate nature’s beauty and foster appreciation for ecological diversity.

      Keywords

      • Landscape - all the visible features of an area of land, often considered in terms of their visual appeal

      • Layering - placing images, textures, or text on top of each other to create depth and interest

      • Perspective - creating depth and distance in a composition

      Common misconception

      Graphic design landscapes must look realistic to be effective.

      In graphic communication, the goal is to communicate visually, not replicate reality. Stylised or abstracted landscapes can be more impactful and expressive.

      Teacher tip

      Greater contextual information on each designers work can be found in the additional materials. You may wish to alter the imagery to better fit your project themes.

      Equipment

      Access to the internet or a library of art books. Sketchbook or paper for recording ideas, pencils, pens.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does the term 'landscape' mean in art and design?

      a type of paint used by artists
      Correct answer: all the visible features of an area of land, thought about for its visual appeal
      a drawing of people in nature
      a flat shape used in graphic design

      Q2.
      Which of these techniques can graphic designers use to create a sense of depth in a landscape?

      using only one colour everywhere
      Correct answer: layering detailed foregrounds with simpler backgrounds
      drawing everything the same size
      ignoring perspective completely

      Q3.
      Which themes might a landscape design explore?

      Correct answer: Climate change
      The taste of food
      Correct answer: Journeys
      Correct answer: Renewable energy

      Q4.
      We can look at other designers’ work to gain inspiration through their use of , imagery, and themes.

      Correct Answer: Techniques

      Q5.
      Name one reason why designers might use landscapes in their work (beyond just showing nature).

      Correct Answer: to comment on issues, symbolise themes, celebrate culture, raise awareness, express emotions

      Q6.
      "All landscape designs must look realistic to be effective."

      True
      Correct answer: False

      To help you plan your 10 art and design lesson on: Landscapes in Graphic Communication, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...