http://www.metaphorical.org/poetics/page2.html
"For all intents and purposes, visual poetry can be defined as poetry that is meant to be seen – poetry that presupposes a viewer as well as a reader." - William Bohn
Poetry isn't just about reading it aloud - it is meant to be seen and replicated through type and image. Visual poetry was developed from a large number of factors, including Mallarmé's prototypical Un Coup de Des (1914).
IBM (1961) Computer Advertisement [online] Available at: http://gadgets.boingboing.net/2008/08/08/101-classic-computer.html
This IBM advertisement uses emerging photo montage techniques (typical of modernist design) to create a vivid piece of imagery. The use of subdued colours against the black stripes create immediate impact. The imagery dominates the ad as the text is laid out in a simple, one paragraph structure.
http://www.metaphorical.org/poetics/page3.html
Although at first glance, this may seem like a relatively simple insurance advertisement, the designer has included a wide array of text sizes, weights and text positioning in order to create a visually interesting and stimulating piece. It is reminiscent of modernist graphic design as it is anti-ornament and an engaging piece of text, originating from short, simple phrases presented in an unusual composition.
lya Zdanevich, “Soirée du Coeur à Barbe”, 1923
This innovative example of modernist design transforms type into image and is largely anti-ornament. The curve of the text embodies the negative space which in itself, encompasses a short paragraph. The text consists of bold, black serif and sans serif typefaces yet the larger letters are mostly sans-serif and seem to create the most impact, (S and E)
Carlo Vivarelli, Neue Grafik, 1958 [online] Available at: http://wiedler.ch/felix/books/story/260
Grotesk, a sans-serif typeface, is prominent in early modernists works. The design is based largely on form follows function as the composition is intended to ease reading - this is due to the left aligned text, clear and concise spacing throughout and the use of the aforementioned sans-serif typeface.
