Micro/Macro Readings by Edward Tufte

Before reading this article, I have never known that there are such things called macro/micro readings. The systemic layouts which was mapped out perfectly with showing many details could be defined as information design, but not as art or has aesthetic value in the article. I have been designing site map diagram for graphic design class these days and most concentrated on designing the digram simplest as I can be with the information. Tufte tells us that micro reading is not something only about making the information simple.It should show great details and clear as the same time.Looking at the images, a lot of themshowed use of consistancy, multiplicity, repition with theses elements, the design couldstill look very aesthetic tome. Tufte also brings out the idea of using space, "...but it is not how much empty space there is, but rather how it is used. It is not how much information there is, but rather how effectively it is arranged." This was always been important issue to consider when I design any thing; poster, letterhead, business card, signage, ect. This is also implied when making micro/macro readings. Tufte reminds the readers to draw out readings that guide to clarity with rich texture of data, a comparative context. I think it was interesting to see the whole massive information with details and the chaos outcome of its information with micro/macro readings.

Modern Hieroglyphs + Language of Dreams
Reading the article, "Modern Hieroglyphs", for second time, I agree with the arthor that observation is the key to knowledge. The isotypes that are discussed in the article is different than icon that we use for computer. However, I thought the isotype can be another best interface for the first project, too. Isotype usually is very simple, black and bold. With isotype, people also have to have basic knowledge before they interpret it. I find it very interesting that the isotypes that I saw in America are used mostly same in all other coutries. I'm guessing that these isotypes are designed for universal purpose. In the article, "Language of Dreams", it was interesting to compare the meaning of isotype as pictograph and as ideograph. As being a foreigner, as a bilangual person, I have been grwon to adopt both culture of America and Korea, learn both language, and also learn other numerous norms of the two different country. And it is always interesting to see the difference and similarities in expression and styles of two different cultures (in language, art, or any form of expression of ideas).