Low poly art was developed in the era of video games at the 90s ... but since then it has improved a lot.
This type of design, once retro, is again modern and integrates into more and more graphic compositions. Follow our tips for the best use.
1. Review your geometry
The principle of low poly art is to rely on geometric shapes to compose designs. We return to the very base of the drawing, in its most refined form.
Triangles, squares, all polygons have their place in this type of creation. Even circles and curved lines can be used, even if they are less frequently presented.
It is indeed the edges and angles that will generate the specificity of low poly art. However, it is more than interesting to juggle the various forms for a richer composition, more visually interesting.
2. Adjust the edges number
In the straight line of the first advice, you will do more than vary the forms, you will also play on their presentation.
Thus, if you stage triangles, they will not all have the same size or the same angles. This allows you to create relief and life to a design that otherwise would be flat.
But as low poly art also has a 3D effect very quickly, you will also think in relief. And try to adjust the number of faces, and edges, that you will add to your drawing.
Remember that we were talking about circles in the geometric shapes used? The latter can be built from a large number of more or less rectangular shapes associated with each other. The amount of these shapes will add as many edges ... but also as many facets to your design.
In some situations, a lot of facets will be very interesting to work with (especially for the foregrounds), but this is not always the case. Dose this type of finishes carefully.
Warning
In general, it is advisable not to exceed 5 to 6 faces per polygon.
3. Degrade the colors
If the old low poly art was essentially based on solid colors, the new add more matter by emphasizing gradients. The different faces, which we saw above, will not always be in the same shade.
For that, you will have to imagine from which direction the light projected on your drawing comes. This will allow you to determine shadows, and parts that are lighter and darker.
The consistency of this work will bring the necessary realism to your graphics.
4. Add depth and texture
Low poly art continues to grow, as we said earlier. That's why now, in addition to color, you can also add texture to certain areas of your design. In small touches, to stay in the spirit of low art concept, this trick gives more relief to the presentation.
Similarly, you can think in terms of depth of field, with very detailed foregrounds and lighter backgrounds in terms of the number of polygons used.
Le principe du low poly art, c’est la forme géométrique qui devient un dessin, plus ou moins nuancé selon l’envie du graphiste.
Ces quelques conseils vous permettront déjà de tester différentes variations tout en évitant l’écueil principal de cette tendance : le dessin plat et sans relief.
Pensez toujours à vérifier que toutes vos formes géométriques se touchent (pour une même zone) et vos créations ne tourneront pas carré.