Pathways are key graphic elements utilized to evoke the spirit of “the endless pursuit.” The following examples demonstrate how this idea can be illustrated using different graphic approaches to pathways.
Dotted Lines
Dotted Lines are a straightforward interpretation of a pathway. This graphic element lends itself to a variety of executions, with both figurative and literal applications.
Dotted Lines are not intended to be used as primary graphic elements. The weight of Dotted Lines should be relatively thin in proportion to the layout in which they appear.
Figure 1 shows Dotted Lines being used as a rule to underline a text block. Here, it suggests continuation and forward movement.
Figure 2 demonstrates Dotted Lines as a figurative design element. Set at a forty-five degree angle and overlapping other graphics on the page, Dotted Lines break planes to create dimension and invoke a sense of progression.
Figure 3 presents Dotted Lines as literal interpretation of a pathway. In this example, Dotted L:ines suggest the concept of pursuit as they move across the spread from left to right to deliberately activate the space and carry one’s eye from the top of the page to the bottom.
To Create this Line in InDesign
1) Create or select a line with just a stroke as the color.
2) With the line selected, open the Stroke menu and change the Type to either "Dotted" or "Japanese Dots."
3) Change the weight of the stroke to get the desired appearance.
Forward Slash Lines
Forward Slash Lines, similar to Dotted lines, are a straightforward interpretation of a pathway. This graphic element lends itself to a variety of executions, with both figurative and literal applications.
Forward Slash Lines are not intended to be used as primary graphic elements. The weight of Forward Slash Lines should be relatively thin in proportion to the layout in which they appear.
Figure 1 show Forward Slash lines being used as a figurative design element. They can be set horizontal or at a forty-five degree angle and overlap other graphics on the page. Like Dotted Lines and Serpentine Lines, Forward Slash Lines break planes to create dimension and invoke a sense of progression.
Figure 2 & 3 show Forward Slash Lines being used as a rule to separate elements or to underline text. Like Dotted Lines and Serpentine Lines, it suggests continuation and forward movement.
To Create this Line in InDesign
1) Create or select a line with just a stroke as the color.
2) With the line selected, open the Stroke menu and change the Type to "Right Slant Hash."
3) Change the weight of the stroke to get the desired appearance.
Athletics-Inspired Pathway
Bold, modern and youthful, this pathway conveys the spirit and energy of UVA athletics and its supporters. It is appropriate for applications specific to achievement in sports and related pursuits.
To use the Athletics-Inspired pathway as shown in Figures 1 and 2, download the Athletics-Inspired Brush.
Athletics-Inspired Lines are not intended to be used as primary graphic elements. The weight of Athletics-Inspired Lines should be more prominent in appearance, but not overpower the layout in which it appears.
Figures 1 & 2 show the dynamic use of the Athletics-Inspired Line. Note that you should always have rounded corners. To further enhance the Athletics-Inspired Pathway, a grainy/distressed texture may be applied.
To Create this Pathway in Illustrator
1) Download the "Athletics-Inspired_Pathway_brush.ai" file.
2) In Illustrator, open the Brushes panel, click the hamburger menu in the top right corner and go to Open Brush Library -> Other Library. Select the "Athletics-Inspired_Pathway_brush.ai" file you just downloaded.
3) Create your artwork by either using the pen or line tool, then, with the path selected, select the athletics-inspired path from the brush panel. When changing the direction of the path, create 90° angles, which will be used to create the rounded corners.
4) Once your line is complete, select the entire path and change your cursor to the Direct Selection Tool (A). You will now see little white circles by your 90° corners. Select one and drag until your corners are rounded.
5) In addition, you may add some grainy/distressed texture to further enhance the pathway.