image via kyrelimit

What inspires you to create? The elements play quite a big, if often unnoticed, factor in design. Ancient concepts of energy from nature have influenced many forms of art. Everyone is affected by them and reacts in various ways.

Let’s take a look at the five main environmental elements and how they come into play in graphic design.

Earth

image via mhsahin

The Earth is from where all things grow, and eventually return. It emanates perseverance, practicality, and support. The colors orange, brown, and yellow are associated with it; Earthy materials, such as clay and stone also represent the element.

Fire

image via chenoasart

Warmth, light, and destruction all come from fire. The element can be manipulated to stand for honor and passion, while negatively portrayed as a symbol of war and anger. Representatives of fire include the color red, sharp angles, and light.

Metal

image via shadowbrooke

Symbolizing strength and solidity, metal can be used as a beautiful and precious commodity. On the other hand, it suggests destruction and danger, especially when used as a weapon. White, gray, silver, and gold are associated colors.

Water

image via mrkayl

Water can come in the form of a storm or that of gentle rain. It can be transferred through the colors blue and black, mirrors and other glass, and a general meandering form.

Wood

image via taira kato

Bringing forth the feeling of spring, growth and life in general, wood can be  sturdy and stable, but also used as a spear. The energy is expansive and versatile, emerging in things of a green hue and all flora.