visual representation quotes

35 Inspirational Quotes On Visualization

Visualization is defined as to recall or form mental images or pictures; make visual or visible; form a mental image of; make perceptible to the mind or imagination. May these Quotes On Visualization help you to set a clear picture of your goals so that you may live your dreams .

1.  “Visualization is daydreaming with a purpose.” Bo Bennett

2.  “Visualize your success then take action .” Anonymous

3.  “Visualize the most amazing life imaginable to you. Close your eyes and see it clearly. Then hold the vision for as long as you can. Now place the vision in God’s hands and consider it done.” Marianne Williamson

4.  “When you visualize, then you materialize.” Denis Waitley

5.  “Losers visualize the penalties of failure. Winners visualize the rewards of success.” William S. Gilbert

6.  “You are more productive by doing fifteen minutes of visualization than from sixteen hours of hard labor.” Abraham Hicks

7.  “I believe in creative visualization.” Victoria Beckham

8.  “To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there.” Richard Bach

9.  “I train myself mentally with visualization.” Camille Duvall

10.  “I believe that visualization is one of the most powerful means of achieving personal goals.” Harvey Mackay

11.  “Visualizing information can give us a very quick solution to problems. We can get clarity or the answer to a simple problem very quickly.” David McCandless

12.  “Proper visualization by the exercise of concentration and willpower enables us to materialize thoughts , not only as dreams or visions in the mental realm but also as experiences in the material realm.” Paramahansa Yogananda

13.  “Visualize what you want to do before you do it. Visualization is so powerful that when you know what you want, you will get it.” Audrey Flack

14.  “Make sure you visualize what you really want, not what someone else wants for you.” Jerry Gillies

15.  “Visualization. It may be the most important part of your mental package.” Ray Floyd

16.  “I would visualize things coming to me. It would just make me feel better. Visualization works if you work hard. That’s the thing. You can’t just visualize and go eat a sandwich.” Jim Carrey

17.  “The clearer you are when visualizing your dreams, the brighter the spotlight will be to lead you on the right path.” Gail Lynne Goodwin

18.  “Visualization and belief in a pattern of reality activate the creative power of realization.” A. L. Linall Jr.

19.  “Visualize this thing that you want. See it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blueprint, and begin to build.” Robert Collier

20.  “You can’t do anything that you can’t picture yourself doing. Once you make the picturing process conscious and deliberate, you begin to create the self you want to be.” Anonymous

21.  “Look at things not as they are but as they can be. Visualization adds value to everything. A bigger thinker always visualizes what can be done in the future. He isn’t stuck with the present.” David Schwarts

22.  “Visualization is the act of willfully forming mental images. To affect material reality using visualization, form images for your subconscious mind to use as patterns to work from.” James Gor Jr.

23.  “Visualization is the process of creating pictures in your mind of yourself enjoying what you want. When you visualize, you generate powerful thoughts and feelings of having it now. The law of attraction then returns that reality to you, just as you saw it in your mind.” Rhonda Byrne

24.  “If you can imagine it and you visualize it, you can create it.” Anonymous

25.  “The key to effective visualization is to create the most detailed, clear and vivid a picture to focus on as possible. The more vivid the visualization, the more likely, and quickly, you are to begin attracting the things that help you achieve what you want to get done.” George St-Pierre

26.  “In effective personal leadership, visualization and affirmation techniques emerge naturally out of a foundation of well thought through purposes and principles that become the center of a person’s life.” Stephen Covey

27.  “When you visualize for the joy of visualizing rather than with the intention of correcting some deficiency, your thoughts are more pure and therefore more powerful.” Abraham Hicks

28.  “It all depends on what you visualize.” Ansel Adams

29.  “I keep having vivid dreams of success. Then it’s time to sleep.” Conor McGregor

30.  “Visualization is the human beings vehicle to the future – good, bad or indifferent. It’s strictly in our control.” Earl Nightingale

31.  “I’ve discovered that numerous peak performers use the skill of mental rehearsal of visualization. They mentally run through important events before they happen.” Charles Garfield

32.  “ Meditate , visualize and create your own reality and the universe will simply reflect back to you.” Amit Ray

33.  “Close your eyes imagine your life with everything you ever wished for as if it’s already here.” Anonymous

34.  “Visualising a positive outcome will allow you to grow in confidence of the situation because you can believe that things will go well.” Ryan McLean

35.  “In order to make visualization a reality in the world form, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen.” Wayne Dyer

I hope you enjoyed these Inspirational Quotes On Visualization. Do let us know which one was your favorite in the comments section below.

Check Out Mel Robbins’ How To Utilize The Power Of Visualization From Evan Carmichael:

Have A Great Day!

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My name is Asad Meah, I am the CEO & Founder of AwakenTheGreatnessWithin. I am a dreamchaser who has gained a wealth of knowledge in entrepreneurship and personal development over the past five years through self-education. My mission is to inspire millions of people to become entrepreneurs by awakening their minds to their greatness that resides within them.

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April 29, 2019 at 6:12 am

Very good.good job.

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Visual Art Quotes

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Be drawn to the visual arts for it can expand your imagination.

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.

Art is humanity's most essential, most universal language. It is not a frill, but a necessary part of communication. The quality of civilization can be measured through its music, dance, drama, architecture, visual art and literature. We must give our children knowledge and understanding of civilization's most profound works.

Our one goal is to give the world a taste of peace, friendship and understanding. Through the visual arts, the art of celebration of life.

There is no must in art because art is free.

Painting is easy when you don't know how, but very difficult when you do.

I try to apply colors like words that shape poems, like notes that shape music.

There are three forms of visual art: Painting is art to look at, sculpture is art you can walk around, and architecture is art you can walk through

In visual art it's better once to see, than one hundred times to hear.

Art is the triumph over chaos.

It's the same with visual arts, you have some really cool, wonderful striking images that make you think and then again you have wonderful striking images that just take you away from the existing world for a second. And I like the latter a bit more

Art requires philosophy, just as philosophy requires art. Otherwise, what would become of beauty?

Art, like morality, consists in drawing the line somewhere.

Drawing is like making an expressive gesture with the advantage of permanence.

I like visual arts, and what I love doing is participating in the making of it.

A picture book is a small door to the enormous world of the visual arts, and they're often the first art a young person sees.

The visual arts must communicate to the human spirit, forcing individuals to reflect on themselves and their existence beyond their own self-interest.

Creating music, visual art, producing music and film are always at the forefront of my life. Everything great that has come into my life has been through channeling and manifestation of a vision or dream. Pure passion equals love.

God's careful instructions for building the tabernacle in Exodus 31 remind us that his perfection sets the standard for whatever we create in his name. Whatever we happen to make-not only in the visual arts, but in all the arts-we should make it as well as we can, offering God our very best.

A community united by the ideals of compassion and creativity has incredible power. Art of all kinds---music, literature, traditional arts, visual arts---can lift a community.

I found that it wasn't so oddball to like music and poetry and visual arts, they're kindred spirits.

Evidently the arts, all the visual arts, are becoming more democratic in the worst sense of the word.

I felt I really wanted to back off from music completely and just work within the visual arts in some way. I started painting quite passionately at that time.

I'd have been a filmmaker or a cartoonist or something else which extended from the visual arts into the making of narratives if I hadn't been able to shift into fiction.

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Motivational And Inspirational Blog

90 Visualization Quotes To Unleash The Power Of Your Mind

• March 18, 2024
• Inspirational Quotes

Looking for inspirational quotes about visualization? We have rounded up a list of best visualization quotes, sayings, and captions (with images and pictures) to inspire you to visualize success and achieve your goals so that you create the life you want.

Also See: Manifestation Quotes

Visualization is a mental technique of imagining what you want to achieve in the future. It is a practice that uses the universal law of attraction to make your dreams and goals come true.

Creative visualization can attract success and prosperity. It can improve your life by creating opportunities that will help you to attract money, people, work, and love into your life.

The process of visualization is similar to daydreaming, but with a purpose. You can attract events or possessions in your life by visualizing them in your mind.

Thoughts become things, and so you can choose your thoughts wisely. And, the law of attraction says that you will manifest, or attract, things into your life according to your thoughts. The power of visualization and positive thoughts cannot be undermined because energy attracts like energy.

Also See: Positive Thinking Quotes

These motivational quotes are divided into these sections;

Positive Visualization Quotes

Quotes about visualizing.

Visualization is one of the most powerful tools for achieving personal goals . Nowadays, everyone, from athletes to CEOs, are benefitting from visualization techniques. These famous quotes about visualization will inspire you to train your brain to manifest positive things for yourself.

To learn how to visualize or manifest things in your life we suggest you to read the book, The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Also, check our posts on positive mindset quotes  that can help you to feel motivated and reshape your limiting beliefs.

• “Visualize your success then take action.” – Anonymous

“When you visualize, then you materialize.” – Denis Waitley                                                       

“Visualization is daydreaming with a purpose.” – Bo Bennett                                                         

“If you can imagine it and you visualize it, you can create it.” – Anonymous                         

“Visualization. It may be the most important part of your mental package.” – Ray Floyd                                                                                                                                                           

These quotes about visualizing will inspire you to attract money, good health, and success by using the power of your imagination .

If you like these powerful quotes, then also check our posts on believing in yourself quotes and dream big quotes to inspire you to dream big and achieve your goals.

• “Visualize, focus, and execute.” – Unknown

“If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney                                                                       

“Visualization is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein

“What the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill                                                         

If you like these quotes about visualizing about dreams and success, also check our posts on positive affirmations for men and positive affirmations for women to inspire you to manifest your dreams into reality.

These famous visualization quotes also cover visualize success quotes, creative visualization quotes, 3d visualization quotes, and architectural visualization quotes that will help you to attract all the positive things in your life.

If you have some of your favorite quotes which are not included in the above list, please share them in the comments section below and we will love to add them to the list.

Feel free to share with friends and family on Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, and more to inspire positive change in their life.

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75 Quotes For Vision Boards To Inspire You To Take Action

There are many different ways that you can use a vision board to create a visual representation of your dreams. Regardless of the approach you take, finding good quotes for vision boards is an important step to create an effective vision board.

A vision board is a practical tool that helps you lay out your plans, goals, and ambitions. The best vision boards visually represent where you want to be at some point in the future using a collection of images and motivational quotes. Above all, they serve as an excellent motivational tool to help you stay on track with your goals.

You can set up your vision board to show what you want for your life within 1 year, 5 years, or even 10 years. There are no rules! As long as you use quotes on your vision board that are important to you and your goals, referring to your board often will lead you toward the dreams you have chosen to chase.

The following list is made up of my favourite quotes for vision boards. Use these quotes on your vision board to motivate and inspire you to create your dream life !

Inspirational Quotes for Vision Boards

When it comes to finding quotes for vision boards, it is important that you choose quotes that are meaningful to you and your own vision board. These quotes should contain positive words that inspire you to take action toward achieving your goals and living your dream life!

The following are quotes from various famous and historical figures that are designed to inspire!

• ​ “Respond to every call that excites your spirit.” –  Rumi
• “If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.”  – Albert Einstein
• “No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.”  – Robin Williams
• “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”  – Babe Ruth
• “Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.”  – Napoleon Hill
• “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”  – Paulo Coelho
• “The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.”  – Winston Churchill
• “Today is your opportunity to build the tomorrow you want.”  – Ken Poirot
• “The best way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”  – Walt Disney
• “Nothing will work unless you do.”  – Maya Angelou
• “Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.”  – Earl Nightingale
• “Security is mostly a superstition. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”  – Helen Keller
• “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.”  – Dalai Lama
• “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’m possible”!” – Audrey Hepburn
• “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.” –  Dr. Seuss
• “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”  – Eleanor Roosevelt

Quotes for Vision Boards for Creating Your Dream Life

An effective vision board contains powerful motivational quotes that will make you want to  set and achieve big goals  for your life. These quotes for vision boards will help you see that your wildest and craziest dream life is within reach! It all starts with a little bit of goal setting and some great quotes!

• “You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the further you get.” –  Michael Phelps
• “If your dreams don’t scare you, they are too small.”   –  Richard Branson
• “If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore.”  – Michele Ruiz
• “When you have a dream, you’ve got to grab it and never let go.”  – Carol Burnett
• “Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen.”  – Goethe
• “Don’t let others tell you what you can’t do. Don’t let the limitations of others limit your vision.” –  Roy T. Bennett
• “Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” –  Steve Jobs
• “The big secret in life is that there is no secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work.”   –  Oprah Winfrey
• “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”  – Abraham Lincoln
• “If you can DREAM it, you can DO it.” –  Walt Disney
• “Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” –  John D. Rockefeller
• “To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe.”  – Anatole France

Positive Mindset Quotes for Vision Boards

When it comes to your own personal growth, a positive mindset is an essential and powerful tool.

Vision boards are one of our favorite ways to help us maintain a positive mindset in all areas of our lives. On our most recent vision boards, I made a personal goal to  prioritize my self-care  and my husband made a goal to take time each day to express gratitude .

Using these quotes on your vision board will help you use a positive mindset to reach your physical, emotional, and self-care goals.

• ​ “Life is 10 percent what happens to me and 90 percent of how I react to it.” –  Charles Swindoll
• “You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anyone.”  – Maya Angelou
• “Be yourself, but always your better self.”  – Karl G. Maeser
• “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” –  Theodore Roosevelt
• “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.”  – Brene Brown
• “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” –  Norman Vincent Peale
• “Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”  – A.A. Milne
• “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change their future by merely changing their attitude.”  – Oprah Winfrey
• “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”   –  George Bernard Shaw
• “The price of greatness is responsibility over each of your thoughts.”   –  Winston Churchill
• “Very often, a change of self is needed more than a change of scene.”   –  A.C. Benson
• “There are only two options regarding commitment. You’re either in or you’re out. There is no such thing as life in-between.” –  Pat Riley
• “If you want to fly, give up everything that weighs you down.”   –  Buddha
• “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” –  Nelson Mandela
• “Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” –  Louise Hay
• “What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.”  – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Family Related Quotes for Vision Boards

Vision boards can be used to remind us of the importance of strong and healthy relationships with our families. However, the relationships we have with our families look different for us all.

You may be looking for quotes to help you with forming deeper connections with your loved ones. Or you may be looking to set and maintain  boundaries in your relationships  with your family.

Regardless of your family situation, these family related quotes for your vision board will help keep you focused on what matters most – those that you love!

• “It didn’t matter how big our house was; it mattered that there was love in it.”  – Peter Buffett
• “The most important thing in the world is family and love.”  – John Wooden
• “The strength of a family, like the strength of an army, lies in its loyalty to each other.”  – Mario Puzo
• “The memories we make with our family is everything.”  – Candace Cameron Bure
• “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.”  – Michael J. Fox
• “It’s all about the quality of life and finding a happy balance between work and friends and family.” –  Philip Green
• “Family and friendships are two of the greatest facilitators of happiness”  – John C. Maxwell
• “My family is my life, and everything else comes second as far as what’s important to me.”  – Michael Imperioli
• “Being a family means you are a part of something very wonderful. It means you will love and be loved for the rest of your life.”  – Lisa Weed

Money Vision Board Quotes

We all have different financial goals for our lives. Whether you are chasing massive success in business or you are looking to save some money to pay off your mortgage, financial goals are good things to place on a dream board.

Using motivational vision board quotes about money will help you set and reach your financial goals, no matter how big or small they are!

• “ Don’t tell me what you value, show me your budget, and I’ll tell you what you value.”  – Joe Biden
• “Rich people believe ‘I create my life’. Poor people believe ‘Life happens to me.’ ” –  T. Harv Eker
• “I say always follow your passion, no matter what, because even if it’s not the same financial success, it’ll lead you to the money that’ll make you the happiest.”  – Ellen DeGeneres
• “You must gain control over your money or the lack of it will forever control you.” –  Dave Ramsey
• “Finance is not merely about making money. It’s about achieving our deep goals and protecting the fruits of our labor. It’s about stewardship and, therefore, about achieving the good society.” –  Robert J. Shiller
• “Too many people spend money they earned..to buy things they don’t want..to impress people that they don’t like.” –  Will Rogers
• “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants .” – Epictetus
• “I believe that through knowledge and discipline, financial peace is possible for all of us.” –  Dave Ramsey
• “Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.”  – Franklin D. Roosevelt
• “Every time you borrow money, you’re robbing your future self.”  – Nathan W. Morris
• “Wealth is not about having a lot of money; it’s about having a lot of options.”  – Chris Rock
• “I’d like to live as a poor man with lots of money. ” – Pablo Picasso
• “Never spend your money before you have it.”   – Thomas Jefferson
• “There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.”  – Colin Powell

Inspiring Quotes for Vision Boards at Work

Your vision board will also benefit from quotes that will inspire and motivate you at work. If you are  feeling stuck at work  or you  hate your job  and are searching for the courage to quit, these are vision board quotes that you need!

• “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”  – Confucius
• “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” –  Steve Jobs
• “There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart. Pursue these. ” – Michael Nolan
• “It’s not what you achieve, it’s what you overcome. That’s what defines your career.” –  Carlton Fisk
• “Work hard in silence, let your success be the noise.”  –  Frank Ocean
• “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” –  Milton Berle
• “You don’t need to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”  – Martin Luther King Jr.
• “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”  – Mark Twain

Time for Action!

Now that you have chosen your favourite quotes to motivate and inspire you, be sure to hang your vision board in a high traffic area. This is a great way to make sure that you take a moment to read each of these inspirational vision board quotes at some point throughout your day.

Even though it may not feel like you are making a big difference, these quotes will be your compass. When you feel lost, your vision board is a map that will direct you on your path to reaching your goals and living your dream life.

If you feel like you need more motivation, check out our  list of 117 motivational quotes  and our list of the top 100 positive affirmations to say everyday .

And above all, remember that you chose the best vision board quotes for a reason. These are the quotes that capture the spirit of your dreams to give you the strength and courage to pursue them no matter what life throws at you!

Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family on social media! If you know someone who is building a vision board, this could be what they need to help them reach their goals!

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The 50 Best Graphic Design Quotes Ever

Discover inspirational graphic design quotes.

Great  graphic design quotes  serve as a source of wisdom, but also as a source of inspiration. They can lead us to view design in new ways and experiment with new design techniques.

Our list of the 50 best graphic design quotes of all time features quotes from some of the icons of the design industry. Their words provide us with an insight into what made them tick and show us their perspective on certain aspects of design.

Graphic design quotes from a variety of sources

While many of these graphic design quotes are from famous graphic designers, there are also quotes from painters, automobile designers, financiers, authors, entrepreneurs and even fictional TV characters.

The wide variety of graphic design quotes in this list shows us a range of opinions and beliefs on what is the right way to do things in the world of design. Each designer has its own methods, but if you want to create a meaningful design, stick to what techniques suit you best.

1. “There are three responses to a piece of design – yes, no, and WOW! Wow is the one to aim for.” - Milton Glaser

The designer of the famous I ❤ NY logo, Millton Glaser is a man who knows what he’s talking about when it comes to graphic design. This quote highlights what every designer should aim for when working on a design – something that makes people go WOW.

Glaser believes that a simple yes is not good enough, as it doesn’t evoke the kind of emotion that great design should.

2. “It’s through mistakes that you actually can grow. You have to get bad in order to get good.” - Paula Scher

Design legend Paula Scher eases the worries of many struggling designers by admitting that mistakes can help you improve your craft. She highlights how mistakes should be used as a tool for self improvement, not self flagellation.

Coming from someone with such vast experience in design, it’s a valuable piece of advice that should be heeded. Scher started her career as a layout artist for Random House and gradually worked her way up to become the first female principal of Pentagram.

3. “No masterpiece was ever created by a lazy artist.” - Salvador Dalí

In this quote, surrealist Salvador Dalí espouses the value of hard work when it comes to design and art. According to Dalí, a lazy artist never created a masterpiece.

Dalí himself could never be accused of being a lazy artist. He pursued painting, film, sculpture and photography amongst a host of other endeavours.

4. “Good design is all about making other designers feel like idiots because that idea wasn’t theirs.” - Frank Chimero

When design is so good that other designers feel foolish for not thinking of it, you know you’re onto a winner. That’s according to New York-based graphic designer Frank Chimero, whose projects have been featured in The New York Times, Time Magazine, Slate and The New Yorker.

This quote from Chimero encourages designers to try to make others wish they had created the design you’ve made, simultaneously inspiring them to better themselves creatively.

5. “Content precedes design. Design in the absence of content is not design, it’s decoration.” - Jeffrey Zeldman

One of the most referenced graphic design quotes is this gem from designer, author and entrepreneur Jeffrey Zeldman.

Zeldman states that content precedes design, and is intrinsic to its value. He says that without content, graphic design is but a shell of its potential shelf and doesn’t offer anything of substance. It might look nice, but it’s only be decoration without content.

6. “Design is thinking made visual.” - Saul Bass

Designer Saul Bass is best known for creating memorable movie posters, title sequences and logos. Some of his famous  posters  include designs for The Shining, Anatomy of a Murder, Vertigo and The Man with the Golden Arm.

Bass believes that design is thinking made visual. His mind was certainly something to behold and his thoughts produced stunning design.

7. “Do not seek praise, seek criticism.” - Paul Arden

The value of criticism is highlighted in this quote by the former creative director of Saatchi and Saatchi Paul Arden.

Praise is often trivial and doesn’t result in anything meaningful. Criticism on the other hand provides an opportunity to learn and grow. While sometimes criticism can be unhelpful, constructive criticism can be highly beneficial.

8. “Designers may be the true intellectuals of the future.” - Paola Antonelli

Here we see Paola Antonelli sharing her belief that designers may be the true intellectuals of the future. In a world where visual communication has become so important, there’s a chance that her words might eventually ring through.

Antonelli is a very forward thinking art curator, and has used the likes of video games and emojis in her exhibitions.

9. “Color does not add a pleasant quality to design - it reinforces it.” - Pierre Bonnard

The power of color in design cannot be understated, and Pierre Bonnard emphasises that in this quote. Bonnard was an extremely talented painter, illustrator and printmaker who backed up his claims in his work.

Color is not just there to make a design look good, but to reinforce its message. Its presence should not be regarded as an afterthought, but a fundamental element of any design.

10. “No design works unless it embodies ideas that are held common by the people for whom the object is intended.” - Adrian Forty

Professor Adrian Forty states that functional design must have an audience that is equipped to respond to it. If the people who interact with a design don’t find some sort of commonality with the piece, the design is ultimately a failure.

Forty’s area of expertise is architecture, so he’s very accustomed to designing buildings and spaces that are created for certain purposes.

11. “Design is a solution to a problem; art is a question to a problem.” - John Maeda

Possibly one of the most controversial and thought-provoking graphic design quotes on this list is from designer and technologist John Maeda.

Maeda states that while design provides solutions to problems, art only exacerbates the problem by asking more questions. While many people might agree with Maeda, there is a lot to be said for the questions art prompts us to ask about all facets of life.

Design should also not be viewed as merely a solution to a problem, but something that excites and amazes.

12. “Don’t worry about people stealing your ideas, worry about the day they stop.” - Jeffrey Zeldman

Here we have another quote from Jeffrey Zeldman, this time on the subject of stealing ideas. Zeldman encourages us that we shouldn’t be worried about our ideas being stolen, but rather the fact that people may not want to steal them.

Zeldman seems to believe that the mark of a truly great piece of design is that people want to copy it and use it as their own idea.

13. “Design is the body language of your marketing. Don’t slouch.” - Mark King

The quality of design can make or break a marketing campaign. Designer and illustrator Mark King says that design is in fact the body language of marketing and that slouching will poorly reflect on your brand.

This graphic design quote encourages designers and marketers alike to put thought into their work and not to cut corners.

14. “I think designers who aren’t selfish do really awful work.” - Paul Sahre

American graphic designer Paul Sahre unreservedly shares his thoughts on designers who aren’t selfish with this withering remark.

Sahre seems to believe that designers need to have a degree of selfishness to create something of note. Without this, Sahre thinks that their work will be awful.

Sahre probably feels that some of his fellow designers are pandering to clients and that their own unique style is not being reflected in their creations.

15. “Design adds value faster than it adds costs.” - Thomas C. Gale

This famous quote from automobile designer Thomas C. Gale says that investing in design is a very worthwhile endeavour. He believes that the value of a car will only be increased by design and that it will ultimately be worth the cost.

The same applies to any project that design is a part of. Design will enhance it, adding more features and increasing its appeal.

16. “Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future.” - Robert L. Peters

Design is more than how it appears, it has the potential to create culture. It influences the behaviour of people and shapes their values.

Canadian graphic designer Robert L. Peters recognises the significance of what design can do and its ability to shape the future in its own image.

17. “Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design is so simple, that's why it is so complicated.” - Paul Rand

Design can be interpreted as many different things, says Paul Rand. It can be viewed as complex and artistic or as simple and functional.

The simplicity of design allows it to take on so many different forms and this versatility also allows it to be complex.

18. “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

One of the most famous graphic design quotes ever uttered came from the lips of the esteemed Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Saint-Exupéry was basically saying that perfection comes about, not from accumulating elements in your design, but rather taking them away until you have something that’s clear and concise.

A famed poet, writer and journalist, Saint-Exupéry became a laureate of many of France’s most coveted literary awards.

19. “Good design is obvious. Great design is transparent.” - Joe Sparano

According to Joe Sparano; if a designer is to truly create great design, it must be a seamless and unobtrusive composition.

The design must work perfectly in tandem with the subject and not hinder its usefulness or conceal its meaning in any way.

20. “If design isn’t profitable, then it’s art.” - Henrik Fisker

Automotive designer Henrik Fisker states what he believes is the difference between design and art. Fisker makes the point that if a design does not yield a profit, then it should instead be considered art.

He seems to see art as a hobby and design as a business. Fisker’s outlook is debatable, but for him and other entrepreneurs like him, profit often comes first.

21. “Technology over technique produces emotionless design.” - Daniel Mall

Creative director Daniel Mall shows wisdom beyond his years with one of the most relevant graphic design quotes for the modern design scene.

Mall explains how favouring technology over technique will only produce design that lacks emotion and doesn’t resonate with its audience. This is why designers have to be really careful using a computer for graphic design . 

Impassioned and thoughtfully constructed designs will outshine mechanical, bland alternatives every day of the week.

22. “If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.” - James Goldsmith

While financier and tycoon James Goldsmith may not have been referring to design when he made this famous remark, the logic behind it can be applied to any profession.

The design industry draws many freelancers who don’t always have the required skill to produce the design that a client wants. To get a well-made, professional design, you’ll have to pay for it.

23. “Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.” - Pablo Picasso

As one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso knew a thing or two about using colour to convey emotions.

Picasso discusses color psychology’s role in design and how the colours you choose can impact how people view what you’ve created.

For example, red is often seen as a fiery, dangerous, passionate and energetic colour, while blue is typically viewed as calm, professional, composed and reliable.

24. “Design is as much a matter of finding problems as it is solving them.” - Bryan Lawson

As both an architect and a psychologist, Bryan Lawson is a man who understands the thought process behind design better than most.

Lawson says that design is not just about solving problems, but finding them too. Innovation must be a priority when it comes to design and Lawson knows how important it is to stay one step ahead.

25. “Bad design shouts at you. Good design is the silent seller.” - Shane Meendering

The idea that the best kind of design is the one which is least obvious is reinforced in this quote from designer Shane Meendering.

Born in 1987, Meendering has a good understanding of  modern graphic design  and she knows that mistakes that result in bad design will be picked up on quicker than ever before.

Design doesn’t have to be loud and decorative to be effective, but should preferably be fluid and inconspicuous.

26. “Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing.” - Ron Swanson

Some wise words here from fictional comedy character Ron Swanson, who realises the value in giving your all to a project.

Instead of trying to complete two designs at once, designers should reserve all their time, energy and focus for one goal. Ultimately, this will lead to a more satisfactory result.

27. “Creativity is piercing the mundane to find the marvelous.” - Bill Moyers

One of the truly inspirational graphic design quotes on this list is from American journalist Bill Moyers.

Moyers’ beautifully phrased quote, “creativity is piercing the mundane to find the marvelous”, highlights the importance of creative thinking in keeping life interesting and in aiding the discovery of new ways to do things.

28. “Good design begins with honesty, asks tough questions, comes from collaboration and from trusting your intuition.” - Freeman Thomas

As this list proves, automobile designers can be a great source of graphic design quotes. Freeman Thomas serves up another here by exclaiming that good design is honest and asks the tough questions.

According to Thomas, it has its roots in working together and going with your gut feeling about how to approach the design.

Thomas has years of experience working for many large automobile brands and he consistently helped to design some of the world’s most iconic cars.

29. “Talent is a pursued interest. In other words, anything you are willing to practice, you can do.” - Bob Ross

Bob Ross provides some inspirational words here for designers who may be questioning whether they have the talent to make it.

He says that talent is actually a pursued interest, and that if you practice enough, you will attain the ability to achieve your goals.

Ross was a big proponent of a do-it-yourself attitude, and he hosted a very successful instructional TV show called The Joy of Painting.

30. “Good art inspires; Good design motivates.” - Otl Aicher

There are quite a few graphic design quotes that attempt to highlight the difference between design and art. German graphic designer Otl Aicher shares a few simple, yet thought provoking, words on the subject.

Aicher contrasts the effects that art and design have on people. In his opinion, art is something that provides inspiration for further creativity, whereas design acts as a medium for motivation.

31. “When typography is on point, words become images.” - Shawn Lukas

Typography is a fundamental part of graphic design, and it’s the quality of its execution will often make or break a design.

If the typography a designer chooses doesn’t suit the rest of the composition, the overall look can be quite jarring. However, when typography works well, words become images.

The man behind the quote, Shawn Lukas, is an experience designer who works to create visually impactful and inspirational designs.

32. “People don’t use a product because of the great design; great design helps them use the product.” - Viran Anuradha Dayaratne

As Viran Anuradha Dayaratne says, design alone does not make a product, but it can ensure that a product achieves optimum functionality. A badly designed product not only looks bad, but it’s harder to use too.

Dayaratne is a UX Technical Architect by trade, so he is accustomed to making sure the user experience of a product is the best it can be.

33. “It’s art if it can’t be explained. It’s fashion if no one asks for an explanation. It’s design if it doesn’t need explanation.” - Wouter Stokkel

Wouter Stokkel cleverly explains what he believes to be the difference between art, fashion and design in one of the most frank graphic design quotes on this list.

It’s clear that design is digital consultant Stokkel’s favourite of the three, but he doesn’t openly criticise the other disciplines either. Art can’t be explained, and in fashion, no one asks for an explanation.

34. “If you find an element of your interface requires instructions, then you need to redesign it.” - Dan Rubin

Dan Rubin echoes the opinion of Stokkel here by saying how he believes that good design explains itself. If it doesn’t explain itself, then it doesn’t work.

The goal of an interface should be to make things clear for a user. If the interface itself needs instructions, then its purpose is defeated.

35. “Design is like a mom, nobody notices when she’s around, but everybody misses her when she’s not.” - Santiago Borray

As a graphic designer with 11 years experience, Santiago Borray knows what it takes to create design that works.

Here he compares design to a mother. Most of the time a mother will work away tirelessly and no one will pay any heed to her, but when she is gone, everyone will sit up and take notice.

36. “A graphic designer is a machine that turns coffee into beautiful, functional imagery.” - Lisa Manson

Brand strategist Lisa Manson references the crucial role of graphic designers in marketing products. Before graphic design comes into play, a product stands on its own merits.

However, after graphic design is used to create relevant advertising imagery and packaging for the product, a product grows beyond itself and can capture people’s imagination.

37. “Everybody’s a web designer until, you know, they actually try to do it.” - Gabe Boning

Here we see one of the graphic design quotes that talk about how difficult it actually is to create high-quality design.

Software development engineer Boning says that everyone likes to think they can do web design, but when they actually give it a shot, they realise that they might not be so good at it.

38. “Design has to work, art does not.” - Donald Judd

Minimalist Donald Judd shares his opinion that design needs to work to achieve its goals. On the other hand, Judd believes that art does not need to work.

Art is often open to interpretation, whereas design is far more clear cut. If design isn’t working, then it is a failure. Art has much more room to manoeuvre.

39. “A good designer finds an elegant way to put everything you need on a page. A great designer convinces you half that shit is unnecessary.” - Mike Monteiro

Here we see another designer sharing their belief that less is more. Too much information can harm a design and lead to a cluttered effect.

Monteiro says that what makes a designer great is the ability to convince their clients to get rid of half the things they thought they needed in a design.

40. “Standards are like sex; one mistake, and you’re stuck supporting it forever!” - Mark Pilgrim

One of the wittiest and most memorable graphic design quotes on this list comes from  software developer  and writer Mark Pilgrim.

While not speaking about design in particular, Pilgrim tells us that if you let your standards drop, you will have the be held accountable for it. Your reputation can easily be hindered by bad work too.

41. “A user interface is like a joke. If you have to explain it, it’s not that good.” - Martin LeBlanc

Like some of the previous graphic design quotes on this list, Martin LeBlanc’s analogy laments bad user interfaces.

He believes the goal of any user interface should be to be as seamless and intuitive as possible. Users shouldn’t need time to figure out the interface, but should be able to start right away.

42. “The alternative to good design is bad design, not no design at all.” - Douglas Martin

A world without design is a bleak place, or as Douglas Martin puts it, “The alternative to good design is bad design, not no design at all.”

Even if the design you produce isn’t the best there is, it’s better than nothing. You should never exclude design completely.

43. “Graphic design will save the world right after rock and roll does.” - David Carson

Art director rock and roll magazine Ray Gun, David Carson, talks up two of his favourite loves in this graphic design quote.

Carson knew better than most how to weave the two together and has created striking magazine covers for many years.

44. “Great ideas, like babies, are often conceived after a few glasses of wine.” - Sharon Moore

When it comes to creating, no matter what sort of creating you’re doing, it’s no harm to relax to relax and have a few glasses of wine.

As Sharon Moore insinuates, not every great idea came about by careful thought and planning, but sometimes by random chance.

45. “To create a memorable design you need to start with a thought that’s worth remembering.” - Thomas Manss

According to German graphic designer Thomas Manss, a design you create must be inspired by something that is in itself memorable, or that design will be forgotten.

The thought you use as inspiration for the design should be a thought that you feel your audience can take something away from.

46. “It’s very easy to be different, but very difficult to be better.” - Jonathan Ive

Being different used to be something that was unique, but now everyone is their own kind of different.

Acclaimed British industrial designer Jonathan Ive stresses that anyone can be different, but it’s so much harder to be better.

47. “It’s really hard to design products by focus groups. A lot of times, people don’t know what they want until you show it to them.” - Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs need no introduction, but what people might not know him for is this quote about designing products.

Jobs talks about how people often don’t know what they want until you show it to them. It’s one of the graphic design quotes on this list that focuses on the idea that designers should create for themselves and if the design is good enough, people will like it.

48. “The details are not the details. They make the design.” - Charles Eames

While some may say the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, the parts are essential to the equation.

Charles Eames says that details are not just small aspects of a larger piece, but rather the building blocks of the design you make.

49. “Just because you’ve always done it that way doesn’t mean it’s not incredibly stupid.” - Despair Poster

The truth often hits hard. No matter what profession you’re in, hearing criticism of your work can be uncomfortable.

One of the most hard hitting graphic design quotes on the list is from despair.com, the self-proclaimed home of demotivators.

While it’s mostly a joke, there is a kernel of wisdom here too. It prompts designers to look at the methods they’ve been using and see if they need to make any changes.

50. “Using a watermark on your work is like peeing on your belongings so no one will steal them.” - Thomas Amador

Watermarks are the source of much debate. Should you risk harming the appearance of your work to ensure no one claims it as their own? Ultimately, the choice lies with the designer and depends on what they want for their design.

UX designer Thomas Amador certainly feels that watermarks are a bad idea. He goes as far as comparing it to urinating on your belongings.

Use these graphic design quotes to your advantage

Now that you’ve read through the 50 best graphic design quotes of all time, it’s time to choose your favorite quotes and take something from them. Did Dan Rubin’s quote about redesigning elements of your interface that need instructions to inspire you to improve your own user interface? Or did Viran Anuradha Dayaratne’s quote on product design motivate you to make your next product that little bit better?

For more graphic design tips, read our ‘ Creative Ideas to Increase Sales ‘ e-book.

Let us know by tweeting using the handle @getdesignwizard. We’d love to hear which quotes inspired you the most.

Thomas Sanchez

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35 distinct Quotes on the Power of Visualization and why you should practice it every day

Visualization is daydreaming with a purpose. BO BENNETT, American Author

Visualize your success then take action. ANONYMOUS

Visualize the most amazing life imaginable to you. Close your eyes and see it clearly. Then hold the vision for as long as you can. Now place the vision in God’s hands and consider it done. MAIRANNE WILLIAMSON , American Author & Spiritual Teacher

When you visualize, then you materialize. DENIS WAITLEY, American Motivational Speaker & Writer

Losers visualize the penalties of failure. Winners visualize the rewards of success. WILLIAM S. GILBERT, British Writer & Componist

You are more productive by doing fifteen minutes of visualization than from sixteen hours of hard labor.” ABRAHAM HICKS, American Author

I believe in creative visualization.  VICTORIA BECKHAM, British Singer & Author

To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there. RICHARD BACH, American Author & Pilot

I train myself mentally with visualization. CAMILLE DUVALL, American Professional Water Skier

I believe that visualization is one of the most powerful means of achieving personal goals. HARVEY MACKAY, American Business Man & Author

Visualizing information can give us a very quick solution to problems. We can get clarity or the answer to a simple problem very quickly. DAVID MCCANDLESS, British Data-Journalist & Information Designer

Proper visualization by the exercise of concentration and willpower enables us to materialize thoughts, not only as dreams or visions in the mental realm but also as experiences in the material realm. PARAMAHANSA YOGANANDA, Indian Yoga Master & Author

Visualize what you want to do before you do it. Visualization is so powerful that when you know what you want, you will get it. AUDREY FLACK, American Artist

Make sure you visualize what you really want, not what someone else wants for you.  JERRY GILLIES, American Author

Visualization. It may be the most important part of your mental package. RAY FLOYD, American Professional Golfer

I would visualize things coming to me. It would just make me feel better. Visualization works if you work hard. That’s the thing. You can’t just visualize and go eat a sandwich.  JIM CARREY, American Actor

The clearer you are when visualizing your dreams, the brighter the spotlight will be to lead you on the right path. GAIL LYNN GOODWIN, American Author & Entrepreneur

Visualization and belief in a pattern of reality activate the creative power of realization. A. L. LIONELL JR., American Author

Visualize this thing that you want. See it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blueprint, and begin to build. ROBERT COLLIER, American Author

You can’t do anything that you can’t picture yourself doing. Once you make the picturing process conscious and deliberate, you begin to create the self you want to be. ANONYMOUS

Look at things not as they are but as they can be. Visualization adds value to everything. A bigger thinker always visualizes what can be done in the future. He isn’t stuck with the present. DAVID SCHWARTZ, American Author

Visualization is the act of willfully forming mental images. To affect material reality using visualization, form images for your subconscious mind to use as patterns to work from. JAMES GOR JR., American Writer

Visualization is the process of creating pictures in your mind of yourself enjoying what you want. When you visualize, you generate powerful thoughts and feelings of having it now. The law of attraction then returns that reality to you, just as you saw it in your mind.  RHONDA BYRNE, Australian Television Writer & Producer

If you can imagine it and you visualize it, you can create it. ANONYMOUS

The key to effective visualization is to create the most detailed, clear and vivid a picture to focus on as possible. The more vivid the visualization, the more likely, and quickly, you are to begin attracting the things that help you achieve what you want to get done. GEORGE ST-PIERRE, Canadian Professional MMA Artist

In effective personal leadership, visualization and affirmation techniques emerge naturally out of a foundation of well thought through purposes and principles that become the center of a person’s life. STEVEN COVEY, American Author

When you visualize for the joy of visualizing rather than with the intention of correcting some deficiency, your thoughts are more pure and therefore more powerful. ABRAHAM HICKS, American Author

It all depends on what you visualize. ANSEL ADAMS, American Photographer & Author

I keep having vivid dreams of success. Then it’s time to sleep. See also Quotes · 4 min read Valuable quotes and wisdom on impatience – and what it does to you CONOR MCGREGOR , Irish MMA Artist

Visualization is the human beings vehicle to the future – good, bad or indifferent. It’s strictly in our control.  EARL NIGHTINGALE, American Radio Speaker & Author

I’ve discovered that numerous peak performers use the skill of mental rehearsal of visualization. They mentally run through important events before they happen. CHARLES GARFIELD, American Professor & Psychologist

Meditate, visualize and create your own reality and the universe will simply reflect back to you. AMIT RAY, Indian Author & Spiritual Teacher

Close your eyes imagine your life with everything you ever wished for as if it’s already here. ANONYMOUS

Visualizing a positive outcome will allow you to grow in confidence of the situation because you can believe that things will go well. RYAN MCLANE , American Public Speaker

In order to make visualization a reality in the world form, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. WAYNE DYER, American Psychologist & Author

Dare to visualize a world in which your most treasured dreams have become true. RALPH MARSTON, American Writer

In order to find your true potential, what you need to do is simply determine your core values, visualize the person you want to be, challenge common thought traps, and have a clear sense of your goals. DR. PREM JAGYASI, Indian Author & Global Speaker

A human being always acts and feels and performs in accordance with what he imagines to be true about himself and his environment…For imagination sets the goal ‘picture’ which our automatic mechanism works on. We act, or fail to act, not because of ‘will,’ as is so commonly believed, but because of imagination. MAXWELL MALTZ, American Author & Cosmetic Surgeon

Winners in life visualize their success and look forward to reaping and enjoying the rewards of their accomplishments. They revel in their hard-earned victory, and that reinforces their superior level of self-confidence. LORII MYERS, American Author & Entrepreneur

Life. Life is a show. It’s up to you how to make your own story, do your own show and how to live your show you are on. You choose who you need to meet, where you should have your scenes or which scenes you want to do. How awesome your mind can do right? DIANA ROSE MORCILLA, American Author & Philosoph

There is nothing my mind can conceive, my heart can believe, my eyes can see and my soul can visualize that I cannot do. Even if the whole world says I can’t, it’s just a matter of time and I will get it done. DR. BIEN SUFFICIENT, Nigerian Author

If you want your dreams to come true you must visualize them, be excited about them, work for them and don’t give up until you have realized them. The journey is needed for true enjoyment and fulfillment in life. Aimlessly hoping never accomplished anything. PAM MALOW-ISHAM, American Author

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Motivational Quotes from 25 Famous Artists

Motivation is the driving force that propels a creative person forward , igniting their passion and fueling their artistic endeavors.

For centuries, great artists have not only left behind breathtaking works of art but also imparted profound wisdom through their inspirational art quotes.

These famous artist quotes not only inspire artists to push boundaries and seek new ideas but also provide valuable tools for overcoming creative block and finding fulfillment in their creative work. Moreover, they offer guidance for navigating everyday life, fostering a sense of purpose, and nurturing our well-being.

In this collection of art quotes, I delve into the minds of renowned artists including Pablo Picasso , Vincent van Gogh , Andy Warhol , and many others, exploring their insights on creativity, the beauty of art, and the aim of artistic expression.

You may find it helpful to write down some of your favourite quotes and put them on the walls of your studio or office as little reminders, or bookmark this article to refer back to when you need some inspiration.

Table of Contents

How Motivational Quotes Can Help an Artist

1. pablo picasso (1881-1973), 2. vincent van gogh (1853-1890), 3. andy warhol (1928-1987), 4. leonardo da vinci (1452 - 1519).

5. Frida Kahlo (1907 - 1954)

6. Henri Matisse (1869 - 1954)

7. george bernard shaw (1856 - 1950), 8. salvador dalí (1904 - 1989), 9. maya angelou (1928 - 2014), 10. steve jobs (1955 - 2011), 11. jackson pollock (1912 - 1956), 12. oscar wilde (1854 - 1900), 13. gustav klimt (1862 - 1918), 14. frank lloyd wright (1867 - 1959), 15. claude monet (1840 - 1926), 16. marc chagall (1887-1985), 17. edward hopper (1882-1967), 18. wassily kandinsky (1866-1944), 19. ralph waldo emerson (1803-1882), 20. albert einstein (1879-1955), 21. georgia o'keeffe (1887-1986), 22. henry david thoreau (1817-1862), 23. henry moore (1898-1986), 24. francis bacon (1909-1992), 25. edvard munch (1863-1944).

Quotes from famous artists can be incredibly helpful:

Inspiration and Creative Spark: Motivational quotes can ignite inspiration and provide a creative spark, encouraging individuals to explore new ideas, experiment, and push the boundaries of their creative work.

Overcoming Creative Block: Artists often experience creative block; a state of feeling stuck or uninspired. Motivational quotes can offer fresh perspectives, renewed motivation, and practical advice to help overcome creative block and continue the creative process.

Perspective and Mindset: Motivational quotes can shape a positive mindset by reminding individuals of the transformative power of art, the importance of self-expression, and the value of embracing failure as a stepping stone towards growth and success. They can encourage resilience, determination, and a sense of purpose.

Everyday Life and Well-being: Motivational quotes transcend the artistic realm and can be applied to everyday life. They offer insights on resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of passions, inspiring individuals to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life beyond their creative endeavors.

Mental Health and Emotional Well-being: Motivational quotes can positively impact mental health and emotional well-being. They can uplift spirits, provide motivation during challenging times, and serve as reminders to prioritise self-care, balance, and self-compassion.

Self-reflection and Personal Growth: Quotes from famous artists often delve into deeper aspects of life, inviting individuals to reflect on their own beliefs, values, and aspirations. They can provoke introspection, encourage personal growth, and prompt individuals to align their creative pursuits with their authentic selves.

Motivational quotes from famous artists serve as beacons of inspiration, providing guidance, encouragement, and practical insights. They can fuel creativity, help overcome obstacles, promote well-being, and inspire personal and artistic growth, making them valuable resources for individuals seeking motivation and guidance on their creative journeys.

Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) was a Spanish painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramicist, and stage designer, widely regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. With a diverse range of artistic styles and constant experimentation, Picasso challenged traditional artistic norms, leaving an indelible mark on modern art. His works continue to captivate audiences with their innovation, emotional depth, and timeless appeal.

Here are some famous motivational quotes attributed to Pablo Picasso:

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up."

"Every act of creation is first an act of destruction."

"Action is the foundational key to all success."

"Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working."

"Learn the rules like a pro so you can break them like an artist."

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."

"I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it."

"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."

"Art is the lie that enables us to realise the truth."

These quotes showcase Picasso's perspectives on art, creativity, and the process of artistic expression. They encourage us to embrace our artistic instincts, seek inspiration in our everyday lives, and challenge traditional norms to explore new possibilities.

Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) was a Dutch post-impressionist painter whose artistic genius emerged amidst personal struggles. His emotionally charged artworks, characterized by bold brushwork and vibrant colors, have become iconic. Despite enduring mental health challenges, van Gogh created a profound body of work that continues to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.

Vincent van Gogh left behind a legacy of inspiring words. Here are some famous motivational quotes attributed to van Gogh:

"If you hear a voice within you say 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced."

"Great things are done by a series of small things brought together."

"I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream."

"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?"

"If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere."

"I would rather die of passion than of boredom."

"Normality is a paved road: it's comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow."

"If you want to know an artist, look at their art."

"I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart."

"The only time I feel alive is when I'm painting."

These quotes reflect van Gogh's passionate and relentless pursuit of artistic expression, as well as his deep appreciation for the beauty and inspiration found in the world around him.

For more articles about Vincent van Gogh, please read here .

Andy Warhol (1928-1987) was an American artist, filmmaker, and leading figure in the Pop Art movement. Known for his iconic works exploring celebrity culture, consumerism, and mass media, Warhol revolutionised the art world with his bold and repetitive imagery. His legacy as a pioneer of contemporary art continues to influence and inspire generations.

Here are some of his most famous quotes:

"In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 minutes."

"Art is what you can get away with."

"I never read, I just look at pictures."

"Don't think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it's good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art."

"The idea is not to live forever, but to create something that will."

"The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do."

"Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art."

These quotes reflect Warhol's unique perspective on art, fame, and popular culture, showcasing his wit, irreverence, and fascination with the world of consumerism and media.

For more information about Pop Art, please read here .

Leonardo da Vinci (1452 - 1519) , the Italian polymath of the Renaissance, is renowned for his extraordinary creativity and mastery across various disciplines. Here are some motivational quotes attributed to Leonardo da Vinci:

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

"Learning never exhausts the mind."

"The noblest pleasure is the joy of understanding."

"It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things."

"As a well-spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well spent brings happy death."

"I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do."

"While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die."

"Just as iron rusts from disuse, so does inaction spoil the intellect."

These quotes reflect Leonardo da Vinci's emphasis on lifelong learning, taking action, and embracing curiosity, as well as his profound insights into the human condition and the pursuit of excellence.

5.  Frida Kahlo (1907 - 1954)

Frida Kahlo , the influential Mexican artist known for her powerful self-portraits and exploration of identity, expressed her thoughts and emotions through her art. Here are some motivational quotes attributed to Frida Kahlo:

"Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?"

"I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best."

"I am my own muse. I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to know better."

"At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can."

"I paint flowers so they will not die."

"I am my own experiment. I am my own work of art."

"I tried to drown my sorrows, but the bastards learned how to swim."

"Nothing is absolute. Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves, everything flies and goes away."

These quotes reveal Frida Kahlo's resilience, introspection, and passion for self-expression. They inspire us to embrace our own uniqueness, confront challenges, and find strength in our personal journeys.

For information about Frida Kahlo exhibitions, please read here .

Henri Matisse (1869 - 1954) , the renowned French artist known for his innovative use of colour and form, left behind inspiring words that reflect his artistic philosophy and approach to life. Here are some inspirational quotes attributed to Henri Matisse:

"Creativity takes courage."

"There are always flowers for those who want to see them."

"I have always tried to hide my efforts and wished my works to have the light joyousness of springtime."

"An artist must possess Nature. He must identify himself with her rhythm, by efforts that will prepare the mastery which will later enable him to express himself in his own language."

"Derive happiness in oneself from a good day's work, from illuminating the fog that surrounds us."

"I don't paint things. I only paint the difference between things."

These quotes reflect Matisse's emphasis on creativity, dedication, and the pursuit of beauty. They inspire us to embrace artistic expression, find joy in our work, and appreciate the world around us with fresh eyes.

George Bernard Shaw , the renowned Irish playwright and critic, was known for his wit, social commentary, and sharp intellect. Here are some inspirational quotes attributed to George Bernard Shaw:

"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."

"Success does not consist in never making mistakes but in never making the same one a second time."

"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place."

"The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them."

"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man."

"Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations."

"A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable but more useful than a life spent doing nothing."

"Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire; you will what you imagine, and at last, you create what you will."

"You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, 'Why not?'"

These quotes reflect George Bernard Shaw's thought-provoking insights on life, progress, creativity, and the importance of taking initiative. They encourage us to think differently, embrace change, and actively pursue our goals and dreams.

Salvador Dalí, the surrealist master known for his eccentric and dreamlike artworks, often shared profound and thought-provoking insights. Here are some inspirational quotes attributed to Salvador Dalí:

"Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it."

"Give me two hours a day of activity, and I'll take the other twenty-two in dreams."

"Surrealism is destructive, but it destroys only what it considers to be shackles limiting our vision."

"A true artist is not one who is inspired, but one who inspires others."

"It is not necessary for the public to know whether I am joking or whether I am serious, just as it is not necessary for me to know it myself."

These quotes reflect Dalí's unconventional and imaginative approach to art and life. They encourage us to embrace our uniqueness, challenge societal norms, and explore the depths of our creativity without fear or limitation.

Maya Angelou, the renowned American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, was known for her powerful words that touched hearts and inspired generations. Here are some inspirational quotes attributed to Maya Angelou:

"You can not use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have."

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

"You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it."

"You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody."

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude."

"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."

"Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it."

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."

"You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."

These quotes reflect Maya Angelou's wisdom, resilience, and belief in the power of personal growth, self-acceptance, and empathy. They encourage us to embrace our journey, overcome adversity, and strive for a meaningful and compassionate life.

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc. and a visionary designer and entrepreneur who left behind a legacy of innovation and inspiring insights. Here are some inspirational quotes attributed to Steve Jobs:

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."

"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower."

"Your time is limited, don't waste it living someone else's life."

"Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose."

"The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do."

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works."

"Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice."

These quotes reflect Steve Jobs' emphasis on following one's passion, embracing innovation, and challenging the status quo. They inspire us to pursue our dreams, believe in our abilities, and strive for excellence.

Jackson Pollock, the influential American abstract expressionist artist known for his unique drip painting technique, had a profound impact on the art world. While Pollock himself was not known for sharing many quotes, here are a few inspirational quotes associated with his artistic style and philosophy:

"Painting is self-discovery. Every good artist paints what he is."

"The painting has a life of its own. I try to let it come through."

"I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them."

"It doesn't make much difference how the paint is put on as long as something has been said. Technique is just a means of arriving at a statement."

"I have no fear of making changes, destroying the image, etc., because the painting has a life of its own."

These quotes reflect Jackson Pollock's emphasis on the idea that the painting itself carries its own significance beyond the artist's intentions.

Oscar Wilde, the celebrated Irish writer and playwright, left behind a treasure trove of memorable quotes. Known for his sharp wit and satirical observations, here are some famous quotes attributed to Oscar Wilde:

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."

"I can resist everything except temptation."

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all."

"I am not young enough to know everything."

"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars."

"The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it."

"A cynic is a man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing."

"Always forgive your enemies; nothing annoys them so much."

"The truth is rarely pure and never simple."

These quotes reflect Oscar Wilde's cleverness, irony, and insightful perspective on various aspects of life, society, and human nature. They continue to entertain and provoke thought, showcasing Wilde's enduring legacy as a master of words and wit.

Gustav Klimt, the renowned Austrian symbolist painter, left a lasting impact with his decorative and sensual artworks. While Klimt is not as well-known for his quotes as he is for his art, here are a few famous quotes associated with him:

"All art is erotic."

"Art is a line around your thoughts."

"Art is the highest form of hope."

These quotes provide glimpses into Gustav Klimt's views on art, the expressive power of his works, and the significance of visual representation as a means of understanding an artist's identity and intentions.

For more information about Gustav Klimt exhibitions, please read here .

Frank Lloyd Wright, the influential American architect and designer, was known for his innovative and visionary approach to architecture. Here are some famous quotes attributed to Frank Lloyd Wright:

"Every great architect is — necessarily — a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age."

"The mother art is architecture. Without an architecture of our own, we have no soul of our civilisation."

"Form follows function - that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union."

"The space within becomes the reality of the building."

"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you."

"The good building is not one that hurts the landscape, but one which makes the landscape more beautiful than it was before the building was built."

"Less is only more where more is no good."

These quotes reflect Frank Lloyd Wright's emphasis on the integration of architecture with nature, the importance of harmony and functionality in design, and his belief in the transformative power of architecture to shape and enhance our environment.

Claude Monet, the renowned French Impressionist painter, created a vast body of work that captured the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. Here are a few famous quotes associated with him:

"Colour is my daylong obsession, joy, and torment."

"The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration."

"For me, a landscape does not exist in its own right, since its appearance changes at every moment”

"It's on the strength of observation and reflection that one finds a way. So we must dig and delve unceasingly."

"The more I live, the more I regret how little I know."

"My wish is to stay always like this, living quietly in a corner of nature."

These quotes reflect Claude Monet's deep connection with nature, his passion for capturing the changing effects of light and color, and his belief in the emotional and sensory power of art.

Marc Chagall (1887-1985) was a Russian-French artist renowned for his imaginative and vibrant paintings. His unique style blended elements of Cubism, Symbolism, and Fauvism, characterised by dreamlike compositions and surreal imagery. Here are some motivational quotes from the renowned artist Marc Chagall:

"Great art picks up where nature ends."

"If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if from the head, almost nothing."

"Art is the most beautiful deception of all.”

"In our life, there is a single melody, as if it were a signature note, that reveals the degree of our richness and poverty, our happiness and sadness. It is the melody of love."

"All colours are the friends of their neighbours and the lovers of their opposites."

These quotes reflect Chagall's deep connection with art, love, and the creative process, and they can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for artists and individuals alike.

Edward Hopper (1882-1967) was a celebrated American painter known for his evocative depictions of urban and rural scenes. His iconic works captured a sense of solitude and introspection, exploring themes of isolation, alienation, and the human experience in modern society.

Here are some motivational quotes from the renowned American painter Edward Hopper:

"If I could say it in words, there would be no reason to paint."

"No amount of skillful invention can replace the essential element of imagination."

"Great art is the outward expression of an inner life in the artist."

"I think that if you do something often enough, you tend to get good at it."

"Every really good picture that you make is a stepping stone to a better one."

"It's not the medium that counts but the power of expression."

"I hope it is not too optimistic of me to believe that art can be a basic instinct of people, like food and shelter."

"The only real influence I've ever had was myself."

These quotes reflect Hopper's dedication to his craft, the power of artistic expression, and the importance of imagination in creating meaningful art. They can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for artists and individuals seeking to pursue their creative endeavors. 

Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944) was a Russian painter and art theorist credited as one of the pioneers of abstract art. His groundbreaking work explored the spiritual and emotional power of colour and form. Here are some motivational quotes from Kandinsky:

"Colour is a power which directly influences the soul."

"To create a work of art is to create the world."

"The artist must train not only his eye but also his soul."

"Colour is the keyboard, the eyes are the harmonies, the soul is the piano with many strings."

"Everything starts from a dot."

"The power of profound meaning is found in its abstract form."

These quotes reflect Kandinsky's belief in the transformative and spiritual nature of art, emphasizing the importance of color, form, and the artist's inner journey. They can serve as inspiration for artists and individuals seeking to tap into their creativity and express themselves through art.

For more information about Wassily Kandinsky, please read here .

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) was an influential American essayist, poet, and philosopher. His writings emphasised individualism, self-reliance, and the connection between nature and spirituality. Here are some motivational quotes from Emerson:

"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."

"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be."

"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm."

"The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn."

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment."

"What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say."

These quotes reflect Emerson's belief in self-reliance, personal growth, and the power of authenticity. They inspire individuals to embrace their unique qualities, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Albert Einstein (1879-1955) was a German-born physicist and one of the greatest scientific minds in history. His groundbreaking theories, including the theory of relativity, revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Here are some motivational quotes from Einstein:

"Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution."

"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity."

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning."

"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value."

"The measure of intelligence is the ability to change."

"Creativity is contagious, pass it on."

"Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere."

"A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new."

"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination."

These quotes reflect Einstein's curiosity, innovative thinking, and his belief in the power of imagination and perseverance. They serve as inspiration to embrace challenges, think outside the box, and pursue our passions with dedication and enthusiasm.

Georgia O'Keeffe, an American artist, is renowned for her iconic and innovative paintings of enlarged flowers, New Mexico landscapes, and abstract forms. Her work defied traditional conventions, showcasing a unique vision and profound connection with nature. Here are three Georgia O'Keeffe motivational quotes:

"I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn't say any other way—things I had no words for."

"I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life—and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do."

"To create one's world in any of the arts takes courage."

These quotes from Georgia O'Keeffe can inspire us to embrace our creativity, overcome our fears, and have the courage to pursue our passions.

Henry David Thoreau an American philosopher, writer, and naturalist, is best known for his book "Walden" and his influential essay "Civil Disobedience." Thoreau championed simplicity, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for nature.

Here are three motivational quotes from Henry David Thoreau:

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."

"Our truest life is when we are in dreams awake."

"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals."

These quotes by Henry David Thoreau inspire us to live purposefully, embrace our dreams, and recognize the transformative power of our endeavors.

Henry Moore (1898-1986) was a British sculptor known for his abstract and monumental works. He redefined sculpture by exploring organic forms and the relationship between space and mass. His art merged nature and abstraction, leaving a lasting impact on modern sculpture.

Here are three Henry Moore motivational quotes:

"To be an artist is to believe in life."

"Art is the expression of imagination, not the duplication of reality."

"The secret of life is to have a task, something you devote your entire life to, something you bring everything to, every minute of the day for your whole life. And the most important thing is, it must be something you cannot possibly do."

Francis Bacon (1909-1992) was an Irish-born British painter known for his visceral and haunting figurative art. His works, often distorted and emotionally charged, explored themes of existentialism, violence, and the human condition, leaving a profound impact on contemporary art. Here are three of his quotes:

"The job of the artist is always to deepen the mystery."

"I have always believed that art should be a disturbance, that it should provoke thought and challenge our perceptions."

"The creative process is a cocktail of instinct, skill, culture, and a highly creative feverishness. It is not like a drug; it is a particular state when everything happens very quickly."

While these quotes may not be explicitly inspirational, they offer insights into Francis Bacon's artistic mindset and can inspire individuals to approach their own artistic endeavors with passion, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking.

Edvard Munch (1863-1944) was a Norwegian painter and printmaker, best known for his iconic artwork "The Scream." He was a pioneer of Expressionism, exploring themes of anxiety, mortality, and emotional turmoil through his haunting and introspective imagery. Here are three of his motivational quotes:

"From my rotting body, flowers shall grow, and I am in them, and that is eternity."

"Art comes from joy and pain, but mostly from pain."

"Without anxiety and illness, I am a ship without a rudder. My sufferings are part of myself and my art."

These quotes provide further insight into Edvard Munch's artistic philosophy and his unique relationship with his art. They encourage artists to embrace the range of human emotions, acknowledge the power of colour, and find meaning and expression through personal experiences.

I hope you have found the quotes in this article as inspirational as I do. If you have any other artist quotes you think I should include here, please email me at [email protected] .

If you enjoyed this blog post, you might like…

• Art Galleries
• Arts and Crafts with Children
• How-to Guides
• Inspiring Places
• New Technology

Hi, I'm Sarah, I sell my artwork through my Art Store . I draw inspiration from my travels and personal experiences, and I believe in the healing power of art and its ability to bring people together.

On my blog, I share inspiration for art-inspired trips and holidays, tips to help improve your art, and ideas for fun craft activities with children.

Follow me on Instagram to see my latest artwork and behind-the-scenes processes, or sign up for my newsletter to receive exclusive offers and stay updated on new artwork and blog posts. Join me on this creative journey!

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20 Data Visualization Quotes by Industry Experts

April 15, 2021

Data visualization is the big thing these days. It's the key to making a company's story more compelling, a scientific concept more understandable, or a politician's speech more memorable.

But how do you make data visualization come alive with just a few lines of text?

Here are 20 data visualization quotes by industry experts to help you make your point.

Data visualization effectiveness

1. "The effectiveness of data visualization can be gauged by its simplicity, relevancy, and its ability to hold the user's hand during their data discovery journey." — Jagat Saikia

2. "Due to the increasingly enormous amount of data available, analytics must be represented visually and be immediately comprehensible. AI algorithms need to extract pertinent facts and the platform should enable the user to go from a macro picture to a granular analysis in one click.” — Ludovic Gallen

3. "One of the most challenging components of data visualization is that oftentimes the story you need to tell is complex, dynamic, and multidimensional. However, the standard tools we have are flat, static, and designed for paper. Decomposing the dynamic nature of the narrative embedded within your data into a storyboard format is one of the best ways to ensure your key points are effectively received by your intended audience." — Thomas Rhodes

4. "Data visualization is the language of decision making. Good charts effectively convey information. Great charts enable, inform, and improve decision making." — Dante Vitagliano

5. "Measure the most you can and show the least you can." — Danique Roefs

Data visualization usefulness

6. "Data visualization is a great way to simplify data and show it in a form that is understandable, insightful, and actionable. Data visualization is being increasingly seen as the vital final step of any successful data-driven analytics plan." — Caroline Lee

7. "Data visualizations must communicate answers and provide business outcomes. If the data feeding an analytics dashboard is not trusted, the results are meaningless. If the visualizations do not answer important business questions, the visualizations are not actionable." — Katie Horvath

8. "It is true that data visualization is part data science and part art. That being said, even the most creative art is supported by theories that explain why it works." — Michiko I. Wolcott

9. "In converting data into decision-enabling insights, the data visualization usually is the final step of the delivery. If a person has a limited amount of time to grasp how a certain business area or industry performs, visualizations are the best choice. They allow more pieces of information to be combined and allow trends to be spotted much faster than when analyzing tabular data." — Michael Sena

10. "Data visualization is powerful. Still, data storytelling is the thing driving decision-makers. People take action when they interact with a data-evidenced proof of the story." — Monika Piekarska

Future of data visualization

11. "Nowadays, businesses suffer from information overload, which may lead to the situation when prominent data remains off the radar. By compressing data from multiple reports into visuals, businesses can uncover data patterns and connections that matter in a timely fashion." — Maryna Chernik

12. "How we visualize data will evolve into more complex forms that better communicate uncertainty and complexity." — Amanda Makulec

13. "Data visualization is an aid from the beginning to the end of the typical data science pipeline. It improves the understanding and communication of the data for both data experts and end users." — Samara Vazquez Perez

Data visualization process

14. “You can achieve simplicity in the design of effective charts, graphs and tables by remembering three fundamental principles: restrain, reduce, emphasize.” — Garr Reynolds

15. "Make all visual distinctions as subtle as possible, but still clear and effective." — Edward Tufte

16. “An editorial approach to visualization design requires us to take responsibility to filter out the noise from the signals, by identifying the most valuable, most striking or most relevant dimensions of the subject matter in question.” — Andy Kirk

17. "I feel that every day, all of us now are being blasted by information design. It's being poured into our eyes through the Web, and we're all visualizers now; we're all demanding a visual aspect to our information. There's something almost quite magical about visual information. It's effortless; it literally pours in." — David McCandless

18. “The purpose of visualization is insight, not pictures” — Ben A. Shneiderman

19. "Data visualization transforms data into powerful visualizations and provides tactical, operational, and strategic insights. No longer merely a spreadsheet, business intelligence visualizations can be used for everything from providing analysis of cybersecurity patterns, to managing workplace efficiency for global companies." — Jason Beres

20. "Data visualization helps to bridge the gap between numbers and words." — Brie E. Anderson

Hopefully these quotes will inspire you to learn more about data visualization. Data visualization is important for data analysis generally and insight processes. Keep the importance of data visualization in mind when using data to inform your business decisions.

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15+ Inspiring Quotes On Visual Learning

Last Updated on October 9, 2023 by Editorial Team

Drop-outs, rejections, social isolation, and poor confidence – all these come as baggage along with learning difficulties. Only those who have the patience and perseverance to learn continue to chase their dreams. For many years, a lot has been emphasized upon understanding the learning style instead of trying to fit students into a fixed style.

Such an enhanced level of awareness and the need to voice out the concerns led to some of the most motivating and insightful quotes. In one of our posts , we have curated quotes on Kinesthetics learning. The idea is to motivate our readers and highlight the fact that strong thinkers are talking about alternative learning styles.

Let’s take a look at some of the most thought-provoking quotes that tell how visual learning deserves a place in our thoughts and discussions.

Thought-provoking quotes on visual learning

1. “ it has been said that 80% of what people learn is visual.” –   author: allen klein.

Allen Klein has always been vocal about the concerns related to education, experiences, learning, etc. This quote reminds us of the times when pictures spoke a lot more to us than words. The trend still dominates; the only thing required is to have an eye and attitude to accept that fact!

2 . “Learning to see and create visual images must also be recognized as essential to the learning process” – Bette Fetter

Bette Fetter is one of the strongest forces among educators who have promoted the idea of visual learning. In her book, Being Visual, she has explained the importance of visual modes of absorbing information. Several notable quotes have emerged from this work of hers. The above quote beautifully and succinctly emphasizes the inclusion of visual means in the learning process.

3. “Visual-spatial thinkers need to see to think” – Bette Fetter

How exactly did the visual thinkers develop their perspective? Bette Fetter has demystified the whole process adopted by visual-spatial thinkers. She explains that inputs received by seeing stimulate the minds of visual learners more effectively. The quote sums up this idea and provides teachers with a direction on how to create a learning environment more effective.

4. “I guess through my learning disability, through dyslexia, I’ve always been a visual learner – I take in everything through my eyes” . – Scoot McNairy

Scoot McNairy is an American actor-producer. He has always been open about the learning struggles he faced as a child. This quote gives a fairer insight into the alternative learning ways like visual learning that can change the outcomes better for dyslexics.

5. “As children, as we learn what things are, we are slowly learning to dismiss them visually. As adults, entirely submerged in words and concepts, we spend almost all of our time thinking and worrying about the past and the future, hardly ever looking at or engaging with the world visually.”   – Chris Ware

The world is way more expansive than the words written in books or explained through concepts. In the race of being erudite, the ability to understand and appreciate the form is being lost in verbal explanations. Visual learners still continue to learn things as they are. Perhaps, they enjoy the world around them better than the other types of knowledge seekers. Chris Ware tries to put forth this notion with this interesting quote.

6 . “People are visual and hands-on learners.” –  Author: Wolfgang Puck

Wolfgang Puck is an accomplished Austrian chef who had humble beginnings. Born in a family with limited resources, he learned a lot about cooking from his mom only by observing her. That part seems to have stayed with him all through his life and comes out beautifully in this quote.

7. “Humans had proven to be unusually good at learning to recognize visual patterns; we internalize our alphabets so well we don’t even have to think about reading once we’ve learned how to do it.” –  Author: Steven Johnson

Steven Johnson points out the automaticity that emerges with complete learning provided by visual inputs. We see an alphabet first and then move on to its sound and further related concepts. In the process, visual learning remains more ingrained and allows us to become fluent readers. Hence, according to Steven Johnson, be visually receptive to be an expert!

8. “Fifteen percent of the students are visual learners. Those are the dropouts.” – Rachel Kirby

Failing to read and write like auditory-sequential learners or conforming to educational norms is one of the reasons behind school dropouts. This quote by Rachel Kirby hits the point most aptly and calls for the need to make education more accommodating.

9. “ My entire learning process is slow because I have no visual memory “ – Georg Solti

Georg Solti was a Hungarian music conductor. He developed his signature style of learning to be comfortable with musical notes and went on to make a music group The Orchestra for Peace. His quote on slow learning shows how important it is to be visually receptive to gain knowledge. Hence, visual learning is not just an option but a promoter of stable and sustainable learning.

10. “ Learning styles Visual – learn best by seeing Auditory – learn best by hearing Tactile – learn best by doing Oral – learn best by saying Social – learn best in groups Logical – learn best in linear process Imaginative – learn best through art, story, and image “-   Author: John Ortberg

John Ortberg segregated different learning styles in this quote and recognized visual learning as a valid way of acquiring knowledge. Yes, we have to dig deeper to know the reason behind a learner’s apprehension towards conventional teaching methods. This simple classification can help find the correct method that makes learning easy for all.

11 . “80 percent of learning is visual, so children who can’t afford vision correction are at such a disadvantage. “-  Author: Ellen Hollman

Imagine the plight of a student whose vision needs correction and visual learning forms a major part of his concept-ingraining approach! That is why not only does the learning method need to be checked; but vision correction also requires our focus. Maybe a simple solution to learning becomes available by simply correcting the vision! Ellen Hollman, the CEO of Visual Impact, emphasizes various problems children face that affect their learning, be it physical or intellectual.

12.” Active learners absorb material best by applying it in some fashion or explaining it to others. Reflective learners prefer to consider the material before doing anything with it. Sensing learners like learning facts and tend to be good with details. Intuitive learners like to identify the relationships between things and are comfortable with abstract concepts. Visual learners remember best what they see, while verbal learners do better with written and spoken explanations. Sequential learners like to learn by following a process from one logical step to the next, while global learners tend to make cognitive leaps, continuously taking in information until they get it.” — Ken Robinson

Learners have myriad ways of absorbing things from the world around them. They may show different levels of performance or fluency in learning depending upon the inputs. Ken Robinson, an education thinker, explained all learning styles in this quote and gave us a quick recap of how to design the learning programs.

13. “Don’t be afraid of books, even the most dissident, seemingly ‘immoral’ ones. Culture is a sure bet in life, whether high, low, eclectic, pop, ancient or modern. And I am convinced that reading is one of the most important tools of liberation that any human being, and a contemporary Arab woman in particular, can exploit. I am not saying it is the ONLY tool, especially with all the new alternatives – more visual, interactive, and hasty – ways of knowledge, learning, and growth. But how could I not be convinced of literature’s power, when it has been my original emancipator?”— Joumana Haddad

Though emphasizing the importance of reading and books in gaining knowledge, this quote from Joumana Haddad does recognize the fact that visual learning is coming up as an alternative and being accepted as a learning method!

14 . “I think that there’s a strong crossover in that Janis, studying the visual arts, was learning how to break it down into details and see how to get the expression that we wanted. And her visual art is as emotionally expressive as her singing. And, I think, when she switched over to singing, she already knew that it was something serious that you broke into pieces so she developed the ability to break it down and learn little riffs that she could throw in here and there.” — Laura Joplin

Visual learning finds its use in developing creative ideas and forms, Laura Joplin explains it effectively in this quote. Also, the quote hints at the possibility that visual learners may be gifted too. Their unique talents help them apply their learning style in various fields and may make them multi-talented in the long run.

15. “Ability to draw and communicate visually can no longer be seen as optional.” – Bette Fetter, Author

Better Fetter, the author of the book Being Visual, has made the point quite clearly and firmly that visual communication and expression abilities are to be embraced and recognized. These may help extract more from the untapped potential available around us in the form of gifted and talented individuals having different learning styles.

16. “It’s a great way for students that are visual learners to do well in a foreign language because it can be a really difficult subject for a lot of people.” – KRISTEN FRAISSE

Since visual learners have better memory recall, they can learn a foreign language more easily. It is because the foreign language also comprises alphabets which we all learn by seeing first. Kristen Fraisse quirkily puts this fact in the quote above.

17 . “For usage-based theorists, the acquisition of language, while impressive, is not the only remarkable feat accomplished by the child. They compare it to other cognitive and perceptual learning, including learning to ‘see’. That is, the visual abilities that we take for granted, for example, focusing on and interpreting objects in our visual field, are actually learned through experience.” —  Patsy M. Lightbown

If you want to have practical knowledge of any topic, you may find the perfect solution in visual learning. Patsy explains this idea in this quote and highlights how visual learning improves interpretability and focus.

Who is a visual learner? One who learns by seeing. But, what does this mean? And how do these learners shape their careers? All such questions find meaningful hints in the quotes from the learned people who embraced this learning method or used it to fill the gap for others. Absorb more innovative ideas around this learning style from the quotes mentioned above and share with us how these have motivated you or helped develop a new perspective.

I am Pratiksha Bhatt, Bachelor of Life Science, and Masters in Management Studies. I have done certification courses in early education counseling. I am a writer, a mother of a child with spelling difficulties which drove me to alternative resources of education like manipulatives and participatory activities. My areas of expertise are learning difficulties, alternative learning methods, and activity-based learning.

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Blog Graphic Design 15 Effective Visual Presentation Tips To Wow Your Audience

15 Effective Visual Presentation Tips To Wow Your Audience

Written by: Krystle Wong Sep 28, 2023

So, you’re gearing up for that big presentation and you want it to be more than just another snooze-fest with slides. You want it to be engaging, memorable and downright impressive. 

Well, you’ve come to the right place — I’ve got some slick tips on how to create a visual presentation that’ll take your presentation game up a notch. 

Packed with presentation templates that are easily customizable, keep reading this blog post to learn the secret sauce behind crafting presentations that captivate, inform and remain etched in the memory of your audience.

Click to jump ahead:

What is a visual presentation & why is it important?

15 effective tips to make your visual presentations more engaging, 6 major types of visual presentation you should know , what are some common mistakes to avoid in visual presentations, visual presentation faqs, 5 steps to create a visual presentation with venngage.

A visual presentation is a communication method that utilizes visual elements such as images, graphics, charts, slides and other visual aids to convey information, ideas or messages to an audience. 

Visual presentations aim to enhance comprehension engagement and the overall impact of the message through the strategic use of visuals. People remember what they see, making your point last longer in their heads. 

Without further ado, let’s jump right into some great visual presentation examples that would do a great job in keeping your audience interested and getting your point across.

In today’s fast-paced world, where information is constantly bombarding our senses, creating engaging visual presentations has never been more crucial. To help you design a presentation that’ll leave a lasting impression, I’ve compiled these examples of visual presentations that will elevate your game.

1. Use the rule of thirds for layout

Ever heard of the rule of thirds? It’s a presentation layout trick that can instantly up your slide game. Imagine dividing your slide into a 3×3 grid and then placing your text and visuals at the intersection points or along the lines. This simple tweak creates a balanced and seriously pleasing layout that’ll draw everyone’s eyes.

2. Get creative with visual metaphors

Got a complex idea to explain? Skip the jargon and use visual metaphors. Throw in images that symbolize your point – for example, using a road map to show your journey towards a goal or using metaphors to represent answer choices or progress indicators in an interactive quiz or poll.

3. Visualize your data with charts and graphs

The right data visualization tools not only make content more appealing but also aid comprehension and retention. Choosing the right visual presentation for your data is all about finding a good match. 

For ordinal data, where things have a clear order, consider using ordered bar charts or dot plots. When it comes to nominal data, where categories are on an equal footing, stick with the classics like bar charts, pie charts or simple frequency tables. And for interval-ratio data, where there’s a meaningful order, go for histograms, line graphs, scatterplots or box plots to help your data shine.

In an increasingly visual world, effective visual communication is a valuable skill for conveying messages. Here’s a guide on how to use visual communication to engage your audience while avoiding information overload.

4. Employ the power of contrast

Want your important stuff to pop? That’s where contrast comes in. Mix things up with contrasting colors, fonts or shapes. It’s like highlighting your key points with a neon marker – an instant attention grabber.

5. Tell a visual story

Structure your slides like a storybook and create a visual narrative by arranging your slides in a way that tells a story. Each slide should flow into the next, creating a visual narrative that keeps your audience hooked till the very end.

Icons and images are essential for adding visual appeal and clarity to your presentation. Venngage provides a vast library of icons and images, allowing you to choose visuals that resonate with your audience and complement your message. 

6. Show the “before and after” magic

Want to drive home the impact of your message or solution? Whip out the “before and after” technique. Show the current state (before) and the desired state (after) in a visual way. It’s like showing a makeover transformation, but for your ideas.

7. Add fun with visual quizzes and polls

To break the monotony and see if your audience is still with you, throw in some quick quizzes or polls. It’s like a mini-game break in your presentation — your audience gets involved and it makes your presentation way more dynamic and memorable.

8. End with a powerful visual punch

Your presentation closing should be a showstopper. Think a stunning clip art that wraps up your message with a visual bow, a killer quote that lingers in minds or a call to action that gets hearts racing.

9. Engage with storytelling through data

Use storytelling magic to bring your data to life. Don’t just throw numbers at your audience—explain what they mean, why they matter and add a bit of human touch. Turn those stats into relatable tales and watch your audience’s eyes light up with understanding.

10. Use visuals wisely

Your visuals are the secret sauce of a great presentation. Cherry-pick high-quality images, graphics, charts and videos that not only look good but also align with your message’s vibe. Each visual should have a purpose – they’re not just there for decoration. 

11. Utilize visual hierarchy

Employ design principles like contrast, alignment and proximity to make your key info stand out. Play around with fonts, colors and placement to make sure your audience can’t miss the important stuff.

12. Engage with multimedia

Static slides are so last year. Give your presentation some sizzle by tossing in multimedia elements. Think short video clips, animations, or a touch of sound when it makes sense, including an animated logo . But remember, these are sidekicks, not the main act, so use them smartly.

13. Interact with your audience

Turn your presentation into a two-way street. Start your presentation by encouraging your audience to join in with thought-provoking questions, quick polls or using interactive tools. Get them chatting and watch your presentation come alive.

When it comes to delivering a group presentation, it’s important to have everyone on the team on the same page. Venngage’s real-time collaboration tools enable you and your team to work together seamlessly, regardless of geographical locations. Collaborators can provide input, make edits and offer suggestions in real time. 

14. Incorporate stories and examples

Weave in relatable stories, personal anecdotes or real-life examples to illustrate your points. It’s like adding a dash of spice to your content – it becomes more memorable and relatable.

15. Nail that delivery

Don’t just stand there and recite facts like a robot — be a confident and engaging presenter. Lock eyes with your audience, mix up your tone and pace and use some gestures to drive your points home. Practice and brush up your presentation skills until you’ve got it down pat for a persuasive presentation that flows like a pro.

Venngage offers a wide selection of professionally designed presentation templates, each tailored for different purposes and styles. By choosing a template that aligns with your content and goals, you can create a visually cohesive and polished presentation that captivates your audience.

Looking for more presentation ideas ? Why not try using a presentation software that will take your presentations to the next level with a combination of user-friendly interfaces, stunning visuals, collaboration features and innovative functionalities that will take your presentations to the next level. 

Visual presentations come in various formats, each uniquely suited to convey information and engage audiences effectively. Here are six major types of visual presentations that you should be familiar with:

1. Slideshows or PowerPoint presentations

Slideshows are one of the most common forms of visual presentations. They typically consist of a series of slides containing text, images, charts, graphs and other visual elements. Slideshows are used for various purposes, including business presentations, educational lectures and conference talks.

2. Infographics

Infographics are visual representations of information, data or knowledge. They combine text, images and graphics to convey complex concepts or data in a concise and visually appealing manner. Infographics are often used in marketing, reporting and educational materials.

Don’t worry, they are also super easy to create thanks to Venngage’s fully customizable infographics templates that are professionally designed to bring your information to life. Be sure to try it out for your next visual presentation!

3. Video presentation

Videos are your dynamic storytellers. Whether it’s pre-recorded or happening in real-time, videos are the showstoppers. You can have interviews, demos, animations or even your own mini-documentary. Video presentations are highly engaging and can be shared in both in-person and virtual presentations .

4. Charts and graphs

Charts and graphs are visual representations of data that make it easier to understand and analyze numerical information. Common types include bar charts, line graphs, pie charts and scatterplots. They are commonly used in scientific research, business reports and academic presentations.

Effective data visualizations are crucial for simplifying complex information and Venngage has got you covered. Venngage’s tools enable you to create engaging charts, graphs,and infographics that enhance audience understanding and retention, leaving a lasting impression in your presentation.

5. Interactive presentations

Interactive presentations involve audience participation and engagement. These can include interactive polls, quizzes, games and multimedia elements that allow the audience to actively participate in the presentation. Interactive presentations are often used in workshops, training sessions and webinars.

Venngage’s interactive presentation tools enable you to create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact and enhance audience retention. By incorporating features like clickable elements, quizzes and embedded multimedia, you can captivate your audience’s attention and encourage active participation.

6. Poster presentations

Poster presentations are the stars of the academic and research scene. They consist of a large poster that includes text, images and graphics to communicate research findings or project details and are usually used at conferences and exhibitions. For more poster ideas, browse through Venngage’s gallery of poster templates to inspire your next presentation.

Different visual presentations aside, different presentation methods also serve a unique purpose, tailored to specific objectives and audiences. Find out which type of presentation works best for the message you are sending across to better capture attention, maintain interest and leave a lasting impression. 

To make a good presentation , it’s crucial to be aware of common mistakes and how to avoid them. Without further ado, let’s explore some of these pitfalls along with valuable insights on how to sidestep them.

Overloading slides with text

Text heavy slides can be like trying to swallow a whole sandwich in one bite – overwhelming and unappetizing. Instead, opt for concise sentences and bullet points to keep your slides simple. Visuals can help convey your message in a more engaging way.

Using low-quality visuals

Grainy images and pixelated charts are the equivalent of a scratchy vinyl record at a DJ party. High-resolution visuals are your ticket to professionalism. Ensure that the images, charts and graphics you use are clear, relevant and sharp.

Choosing the right visuals for presentations is important. To find great visuals for your visual presentation, Browse Venngage’s extensive library of high-quality stock photos. These images can help you convey your message effectively, evoke emotions and create a visually pleasing narrative. 

Ignoring design consistency

Imagine a book with every chapter in a different font and color – it’s a visual mess. Consistency in fonts, colors and formatting throughout your presentation is key to a polished and professional look.

Reading directly from slides

Reading your slides word-for-word is like inviting your audience to a one-person audiobook session. Slides should complement your speech, not replace it. Use them as visual aids, offering key points and visuals to support your narrative.

Lack of visual hierarchy

Neglecting visual hierarchy is like trying to find Waldo in a crowd of clones. Use size, color and positioning to emphasize what’s most important. Guide your audience’s attention to key points so they don’t miss the forest for the trees.

Ignoring accessibility

Accessibility isn’t an option these days; it’s a must. Forgetting alt text for images, color contrast and closed captions for videos can exclude individuals with disabilities from understanding your presentation. 

Relying too heavily on animation

While animations can add pizzazz and draw attention, overdoing it can overshadow your message. Use animations sparingly and with purpose to enhance, not detract from your content.

Using jargon and complex language

Keep it simple. Use plain language and explain terms when needed. You want your message to resonate, not leave people scratching their heads.

Not testing interactive elements

Interactive elements can be the life of your whole presentation, but not testing them beforehand is like jumping into a pool without checking if there’s water. Ensure that all interactive features, from live polls to multimedia content, work seamlessly. A smooth experience keeps your audience engaged and avoids those awkward technical hiccups.

Presenting complex data and information in a clear and visually appealing way has never been easier with Venngage. Build professional-looking designs with our free visual chart slide templates for your next presentation.

What software or tools can I use to create visual presentations?

You can use various software and tools to create visual presentations, including Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Adobe Illustrator, Canva, Prezi and Venngage, among others.

What is the difference between a visual presentation and a written report?

The main difference between a visual presentation and a written report is the medium of communication. Visual presentations rely on visuals, such as slides, charts and images to convey information quickly, while written reports use text to provide detailed information in a linear format.

How do I effectively communicate data through visual presentations?

To effectively communicate data through visual presentations, simplify complex data into easily digestible charts and graphs, use clear labels and titles and ensure that your visuals support the key messages you want to convey.

Are there any accessibility considerations for visual presentations?

Accessibility considerations for visual presentations include providing alt text for images, ensuring good color contrast, using readable fonts and providing transcripts or captions for multimedia content to make the presentation inclusive.

Most design tools today make accessibility hard but Venngage’s Accessibility Design Tool comes with accessibility features baked in, including accessible-friendly and inclusive icons.

How do I choose the right visuals for my presentation?

Choose visuals that align with your content and message. Use charts for data, images for illustrating concepts, icons for emphasis and color to evoke emotions or convey themes.

What is the role of storytelling in visual presentations?

Storytelling plays a crucial role in visual presentations by providing a narrative structure that engages the audience, helps them relate to the content and makes the information more memorable.

How can I adapt my visual presentations for online or virtual audiences?

To adapt visual presentations for online or virtual audiences, focus on concise content, use engaging visuals, ensure clear audio, encourage audience interaction through chat or polls and rehearse for a smooth online delivery.

What is the role of data visualization in visual presentations?

Data visualization in visual presentations simplifies complex data by using charts, graphs and diagrams, making it easier for the audience to understand and interpret information.

How do I choose the right color scheme and fonts for my visual presentation?

Choose a color scheme that aligns with your content and brand and select fonts that are readable and appropriate for the message you want to convey.

How can I measure the effectiveness of my visual presentation?

Measure the effectiveness of your visual presentation by collecting feedback from the audience, tracking engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates for online presentations) and evaluating whether the presentation achieved its intended objectives.

Ultimately, creating a memorable visual presentation isn’t just about throwing together pretty slides. It’s about mastering the art of making your message stick, captivating your audience and leaving a mark.

Lucky for you, Venngage simplifies the process of creating great presentations, empowering you to concentrate on delivering a compelling message. Follow the 5 simple steps below to make your entire presentation visually appealing and impactful:

1. Sign up and log In: Log in to your Venngage account or sign up for free and gain access to Venngage’s templates and design tools.

2. Choose a template: Browse through Venngage’s presentation template library and select one that best suits your presentation’s purpose and style. Venngage offers a variety of pre-designed templates for different types of visual presentations, including infographics, reports, posters and more.

3. Edit and customize your template: Replace the placeholder text, image and graphics with your own content and customize the colors, fonts and visual elements to align with your presentation’s theme or your organization’s branding.

4. Add visual elements: Venngage offers a wide range of visual elements, such as icons, illustrations, charts, graphs and images, that you can easily add to your presentation with the user-friendly drag-and-drop editor.

5. Save and export your presentation: Export your presentation in a format that suits your needs and then share it with your audience via email, social media or by embedding it on your website or blog .

So, as you gear up for your next presentation, whether it’s for business, education or pure creative expression, don’t forget to keep these visual presentation ideas in your back pocket.

Feel free to experiment and fine-tune your approach and let your passion and expertise shine through in your presentation. With practice, you’ll not only build presentations but also leave a lasting impact on your audience – one slide at a time.

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Visual Representation Quotes & Sayings

• Open access
• Published: 19 July 2015

The role of visual representations in scientific practices: from conceptual understanding and knowledge generation to ‘seeing’ how science works

• Maria Evagorou 1 ,
• Sibel Erduran 2 &
• Terhi Mäntylä 3  

International Journal of STEM Education volume  2 , Article number:  11 ( 2015 ) Cite this article

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The use of visual representations (i.e., photographs, diagrams, models) has been part of science, and their use makes it possible for scientists to interact with and represent complex phenomena, not observable in other ways. Despite a wealth of research in science education on visual representations, the emphasis of such research has mainly been on the conceptual understanding when using visual representations and less on visual representations as epistemic objects. In this paper, we argue that by positioning visual representations as epistemic objects of scientific practices, science education can bring a renewed focus on how visualization contributes to knowledge formation in science from the learners’ perspective.

This is a theoretical paper, and in order to argue about the role of visualization, we first present a case study, that of the discovery of the structure of DNA that highlights the epistemic components of visual information in science. The second case study focuses on Faraday’s use of the lines of magnetic force. Faraday is known of his exploratory, creative, and yet systemic way of experimenting, and the visual reasoning leading to theoretical development was an inherent part of the experimentation. Third, we trace a contemporary account from science focusing on the experimental practices and how reproducibility of experimental procedures can be reinforced through video data.

Conclusions

Our conclusions suggest that in teaching science, the emphasis in visualization should shift from cognitive understanding—using the products of science to understand the content—to engaging in the processes of visualization. Furthermore, we suggest that is it essential to design curriculum materials and learning environments that create a social and epistemic context and invite students to engage in the practice of visualization as evidence, reasoning, experimental procedure, or a means of communication and reflect on these practices. Implications for teacher education include the need for teacher professional development programs to problematize the use of visual representations as epistemic objects that are part of scientific practices.

During the last decades, research and reform documents in science education across the world have been calling for an emphasis not only on the content but also on the processes of science (Bybee 2014 ; Eurydice 2012 ; Duschl and Bybee 2014 ; Osborne 2014 ; Schwartz et al. 2012 ), in order to make science accessible to the students and enable them to understand the epistemic foundation of science. Scientific practices, part of the process of science, are the cognitive and discursive activities that are targeted in science education to develop epistemic understanding and appreciation of the nature of science (Duschl et al. 2008 ) and have been the emphasis of recent reform documents in science education across the world (Achieve 2013 ; Eurydice 2012 ). With the term scientific practices, we refer to the processes that take place during scientific discoveries and include among others: asking questions, developing and using models, engaging in arguments, and constructing and communicating explanations (National Research Council 2012 ). The emphasis on scientific practices aims to move the teaching of science from knowledge to the understanding of the processes and the epistemic aspects of science. Additionally, by placing an emphasis on engaging students in scientific practices, we aim to help students acquire scientific knowledge in meaningful contexts that resemble the reality of scientific discoveries.

Despite a wealth of research in science education on visual representations, the emphasis of such research has mainly been on the conceptual understanding when using visual representations and less on visual representations as epistemic objects. In this paper, we argue that by positioning visual representations as epistemic objects, science education can bring a renewed focus on how visualization contributes to knowledge formation in science from the learners’ perspective. Specifically, the use of visual representations (i.e., photographs, diagrams, tables, charts) has been part of science and over the years has evolved with the new technologies (i.e., from drawings to advanced digital images and three dimensional models). Visualization makes it possible for scientists to interact with complex phenomena (Richards 2003 ), and they might convey important evidence not observable in other ways. Visual representations as a tool to support cognitive understanding in science have been studied extensively (i.e., Gilbert 2010 ; Wu and Shah 2004 ). Studies in science education have explored the use of images in science textbooks (i.e., Dimopoulos et al. 2003 ; Bungum 2008 ), students’ representations or models when doing science (i.e., Gilbert et al. 2008 ; Dori et al. 2003 ; Lehrer and Schauble 2012 ; Schwarz et al. 2009 ), and students’ images of science and scientists (i.e., Chambers 1983 ). Therefore, studies in the field of science education have been using the term visualization as “the formation of an internal representation from an external representation” (Gilbert et al. 2008 , p. 4) or as a tool for conceptual understanding for students.

In this paper, we do not refer to visualization as mental image, model, or presentation only (Gilbert et al. 2008 ; Philips et al. 2010 ) but instead focus on visual representations or visualization as epistemic objects. Specifically, we refer to visualization as a process for knowledge production and growth in science. In this respect, modeling is an aspect of visualization, but what we are focusing on with visualization is not on the use of model as a tool for cognitive understanding (Gilbert 2010 ; Wu and Shah 2004 ) but the on the process of modeling as a scientific practice which includes the construction and use of models, the use of other representations, the communication in the groups with the use of the visual representation, and the appreciation of the difficulties that the science phase in this process. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present through the history of science how visualization can be considered not only as a cognitive tool in science education but also as an epistemic object that can potentially support students to understand aspects of the nature of science.

Scientific practices and science education

According to the New Generation Science Standards (Achieve 2013 ), scientific practices refer to: asking questions and defining problems; developing and using models; planning and carrying out investigations; analyzing and interpreting data; using mathematical and computational thinking; constructing explanations and designing solutions; engaging in argument from evidence; and obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information. A significant aspect of scientific practices is that science learning is more than just about learning facts, concepts, theories, and laws. A fuller appreciation of science necessitates the understanding of the science relative to its epistemological grounding and the process that are involved in the production of knowledge (Hogan and Maglienti 2001 ; Wickman 2004 ).

The New Generation Science Standards is, among other changes, shifting away from science inquiry and towards the inclusion of scientific practices (Duschl and Bybee 2014 ; Osborne 2014 ). By comparing the abilities to do scientific inquiry (National Research Council 2000 ) with the set of scientific practices, it is evident that the latter is about engaging in the processes of doing science and experiencing in that way science in a more authentic way. Engaging in scientific practices according to Osborne ( 2014 ) “presents a more authentic picture of the endeavor that is science” (p.183) and also helps the students to develop a deeper understanding of the epistemic aspects of science. Furthermore, as Bybee ( 2014 ) argues, by engaging students in scientific practices, we involve them in an understanding of the nature of science and an understanding on the nature of scientific knowledge.

Science as a practice and scientific practices as a term emerged by the philosopher of science, Kuhn (Osborne 2014 ), refers to the processes in which the scientists engage during knowledge production and communication. The work that is followed by historians, philosophers, and sociologists of science (Latour 2011 ; Longino 2002 ; Nersessian 2008 ) revealed the scientific practices in which the scientists engage in and include among others theory development and specific ways of talking, modeling, and communicating the outcomes of science.

Visualization as an epistemic object

Schematic, pictorial symbols in the design of scientific instruments and analysis of the perceptual and functional information that is being stored in those images have been areas of investigation in philosophy of scientific experimentation (Gooding et al. 1993 ). The nature of visual perception, the relationship between thought and vision, and the role of reproducibility as a norm for experimental research form a central aspect of this domain of research in philosophy of science. For instance, Rothbart ( 1997 ) has argued that visualizations are commonplace in the theoretical sciences even if every scientific theory may not be defined by visualized models.

Visual representations (i.e., photographs, diagrams, tables, charts, models) have been used in science over the years to enable scientists to interact with complex phenomena (Richards 2003 ) and might convey important evidence not observable in other ways (Barber et al. 2006 ). Some authors (e.g., Ruivenkamp and Rip 2010 ) have argued that visualization is as a core activity of some scientific communities of practice (e.g., nanotechnology) while others (e.g., Lynch and Edgerton 1988 ) have differentiated the role of particular visualization techniques (e.g., of digital image processing in astronomy). Visualization in science includes the complex process through which scientists develop or produce imagery, schemes, and graphical representation, and therefore, what is of importance in this process is not only the result but also the methodology employed by the scientists, namely, how this result was produced. Visual representations in science may refer to objects that are believed to have some kind of material or physical existence but equally might refer to purely mental, conceptual, and abstract constructs (Pauwels 2006 ). More specifically, visual representations can be found for: (a) phenomena that are not observable with the eye (i.e., microscopic or macroscopic); (b) phenomena that do not exist as visual representations but can be translated as such (i.e., sound); and (c) in experimental settings to provide visual data representations (i.e., graphs presenting velocity of moving objects). Additionally, since science is not only about replicating reality but also about making it more understandable to people (either to the public or other scientists), visual representations are not only about reproducing the nature but also about: (a) functioning in helping solving a problem, (b) filling gaps in our knowledge, and (c) facilitating knowledge building or transfer (Lynch 2006 ).

Using or developing visual representations in the scientific practice can range from a straightforward to a complicated situation. More specifically, scientists can observe a phenomenon (i.e., mitosis) and represent it visually using a picture or diagram, which is quite straightforward. But they can also use a variety of complicated techniques (i.e., crystallography in the case of DNA studies) that are either available or need to be developed or refined in order to acquire the visual information that can be used in the process of theory development (i.e., Latour and Woolgar 1979 ). Furthermore, some visual representations need decoding, and the scientists need to learn how to read these images (i.e., radiologists); therefore, using visual representations in the process of science requires learning a new language that is specific to the medium/methods that is used (i.e., understanding an X-ray picture is different from understanding an MRI scan) and then communicating that language to other scientists and the public.

There are much intent and purposes of visual representations in scientific practices, as for example to make a diagnosis, compare, describe, and preserve for future study, verify and explore new territory, generate new data (Pauwels 2006 ), or present new methodologies. According to Latour and Woolgar ( 1979 ) and Knorr Cetina ( 1999 ), visual representations can be used either as primary data (i.e., image from a microscope). or can be used to help in concept development (i.e., models of DNA used by Watson and Crick), to uncover relationships and to make the abstract more concrete (graphs of sound waves). Therefore, visual representations and visual practices, in all forms, are an important aspect of the scientific practices in developing, clarifying, and transmitting scientific knowledge (Pauwels 2006 ).

Methods and Results: Merging Visualization and scientific practices in science

In this paper, we present three case studies that embody the working practices of scientists in an effort to present visualization as a scientific practice and present our argument about how visualization is a complex process that could include among others modeling and use of representation but is not only limited to that. The first case study explores the role of visualization in the construction of knowledge about the structure of DNA, using visuals as evidence. The second case study focuses on Faraday’s use of the lines of magnetic force and the visual reasoning leading to the theoretical development that was an inherent part of the experimentation. The third case study focuses on the current practices of scientists in the context of a peer-reviewed journal called the Journal of Visualized Experiments where the methodology is communicated through videotaped procedures. The three case studies represent the research interests of the three authors of this paper and were chosen to present how visualization as a practice can be involved in all stages of doing science, from hypothesizing and evaluating evidence (case study 1) to experimenting and reasoning (case study 2) to communicating the findings and methodology with the research community (case study 3), and represent in this way the three functions of visualization as presented by Lynch ( 2006 ). Furthermore, the last case study showcases how the development of visualization technologies has contributed to the communication of findings and methodologies in science and present in that way an aspect of current scientific practices. In all three cases, our approach is guided by the observation that the visual information is an integral part of scientific practices at the least and furthermore that they are particularly central in the scientific practices of science.

Case study 1: use visual representations as evidence in the discovery of DNA

The focus of the first case study is the discovery of the structure of DNA. The DNA was first isolated in 1869 by Friedrich Miescher, and by the late 1940s, it was known that it contained phosphate, sugar, and four nitrogen-containing chemical bases. However, no one had figured the structure of the DNA until Watson and Crick presented their model of DNA in 1953. Other than the social aspects of the discovery of the DNA, another important aspect was the role of visual evidence that led to knowledge development in the area. More specifically, by studying the personal accounts of Watson ( 1968 ) and Crick ( 1988 ) about the discovery of the structure of the DNA, the following main ideas regarding the role of visual representations in the production of knowledge can be identified: (a) The use of visual representations was an important part of knowledge growth and was often dependent upon the discovery of new technologies (i.e., better microscopes or better techniques in crystallography that would provide better visual representations as evidence of the helical structure of the DNA); and (b) Models (three-dimensional) were used as a way to represent the visual images (X-ray images) and connect them to the evidence provided by other sources to see whether the theory can be supported. Therefore, the model of DNA was built based on the combination of visual evidence and experimental data.

An example showcasing the importance of visual representations in the process of knowledge production in this case is provided by Watson, in his book The Double Helix (1968):

…since the middle of the summer Rosy [Rosalind Franklin] had had evidence for a new three-dimensional form of DNA. It occurred when the DNA 2molecules were surrounded by a large amount of water. When I asked what the pattern was like, Maurice went into the adjacent room to pick up a print of the new form they called the “B” structure. The instant I saw the picture, my mouth fell open and my pulse began to race. The pattern was unbelievably simpler than those previously obtained (A form). Moreover, the black cross of reflections which dominated the picture could arise only from a helical structure. With the A form the argument for the helix was never straightforward, and considerable ambiguity existed as to exactly which type of helical symmetry was present. With the B form however, mere inspection of its X-ray picture gave several of the vital helical parameters. (p. 167-169)

As suggested by Watson’s personal account of the discovery of the DNA, the photo taken by Rosalind Franklin (Fig.  1 ) convinced him that the DNA molecule must consist of two chains arranged in a paired helix, which resembles a spiral staircase or ladder, and on March 7, 1953, Watson and Crick finished and presented their model of the structure of DNA (Watson and Berry 2004 ; Watson 1968 ) which was based on the visual information provided by the X-ray image and their knowledge of chemistry.

X-ray chrystallography of DNA

In analyzing the visualization practice in this case study, we observe the following instances that highlight how the visual information played a role:

Asking questions and defining problems: The real world in the model of science can at some points only be observed through visual representations or representations, i.e., if we are using DNA as an example, the structure of DNA was only observable through the crystallography images produced by Rosalind Franklin in the laboratory. There was no other way to observe the structure of DNA, therefore the real world.

Analyzing and interpreting data: The images that resulted from crystallography as well as their interpretations served as the data for the scientists studying the structure of DNA.

Experimenting: The data in the form of visual information were used to predict the possible structure of the DNA.

Modeling: Based on the prediction, an actual three-dimensional model was prepared by Watson and Crick. The first model did not fit with the real world (refuted by Rosalind Franklin and her research group from King’s College) and Watson and Crick had to go through the same process again to find better visual evidence (better crystallography images) and create an improved visual model.

Example excerpts from Watson’s biography provide further evidence for how visualization practices were applied in the context of the discovery of DNA (Table  1 ).

In summary, by examining the history of the discovery of DNA, we showcased how visual data is used as scientific evidence in science, identifying in that way an aspect of the nature of science that is still unexplored in the history of science and an aspect that has been ignored in the teaching of science. Visual representations are used in many ways: as images, as models, as evidence to support or rebut a model, and as interpretations of reality.

Case study 2: applying visual reasoning in knowledge production, the example of the lines of magnetic force

The focus of this case study is on Faraday’s use of the lines of magnetic force. Faraday is known of his exploratory, creative, and yet systemic way of experimenting, and the visual reasoning leading to theoretical development was an inherent part of this experimentation (Gooding 2006 ). Faraday’s articles or notebooks do not include mathematical formulations; instead, they include images and illustrations from experimental devices and setups to the recapping of his theoretical ideas (Nersessian 2008 ). According to Gooding ( 2006 ), “Faraday’s visual method was designed not to copy apparent features of the world, but to analyse and replicate them” (2006, p. 46).

The lines of force played a central role in Faraday’s research on electricity and magnetism and in the development of his “field theory” (Faraday 1852a ; Nersessian 1984 ). Before Faraday, the experiments with iron filings around magnets were known and the term “magnetic curves” was used for the iron filing patterns and also for the geometrical constructs derived from the mathematical theory of magnetism (Gooding et al. 1993 ). However, Faraday used the lines of force for explaining his experimental observations and in constructing the theory of forces in magnetism and electricity. Examples of Faraday’s different illustrations of lines of magnetic force are given in Fig.  2 . Faraday gave the following experiment-based definition for the lines of magnetic forces:

a Iron filing pattern in case of bar magnet drawn by Faraday (Faraday 1852b , Plate IX, p. 158, Fig. 1), b Faraday’s drawing of lines of magnetic force in case of cylinder magnet, where the experimental procedure, knife blade showing the direction of lines, is combined into drawing (Faraday, 1855, vol. 1, plate 1)

A line of magnetic force may be defined as that line which is described by a very small magnetic needle, when it is so moved in either direction correspondent to its length, that the needle is constantly a tangent to the line of motion; or it is that line along which, if a transverse wire be moved in either direction, there is no tendency to the formation of any current in the wire, whilst if moved in any other direction there is such a tendency; or it is that line which coincides with the direction of the magnecrystallic axis of a crystal of bismuth, which is carried in either direction along it. The direction of these lines about and amongst magnets and electric currents, is easily represented and understood, in a general manner, by the ordinary use of iron filings. (Faraday 1852a , p. 25 (3071))

The definition describes the connection between the experiments and the visual representation of the results. Initially, the lines of force were just geometric representations, but later, Faraday treated them as physical objects (Nersessian 1984 ; Pocovi and Finlay 2002 ):

I have sometimes used the term lines of force so vaguely, as to leave the reader doubtful whether I intended it as a merely representative idea of the forces, or as the description of the path along which the power was continuously exerted. … wherever the expression line of force is taken simply to represent the disposition of forces, it shall have the fullness of that meaning; but that wherever it may seem to represent the idea of the physical mode of transmission of the force, it expresses in that respect the opinion to which I incline at present. The opinion may be erroneous, and yet all that relates or refers to the disposition of the force will remain the same. (Faraday, 1852a , p. 55-56 (3075))

He also felt that the lines of force had greater explanatory power than the dominant theory of action-at-a-distance:

Now it appears to me that these lines may be employed with great advantage to represent nature, condition, direction and comparative amount of the magnetic forces; and that in many cases they have, to the physical reasoned at least, a superiority over that method which represents the forces as concentrated in centres of action… (Faraday, 1852a , p. 26 (3074))

For giving some insight to Faraday’s visual reasoning as an epistemic practice, the following examples of Faraday’s studies of the lines of magnetic force (Faraday 1852a , 1852b ) are presented:

(a) Asking questions and defining problems: The iron filing patterns formed the empirical basis for the visual model: 2D visualization of lines of magnetic force as presented in Fig.  2 . According to Faraday, these iron filing patterns were suitable for illustrating the direction and form of the magnetic lines of force (emphasis added):

It must be well understood that these forms give no indication by their appearance of the relative strength of the magnetic force at different places, inasmuch as the appearance of the lines depends greatly upon the quantity of filings and the amount of tapping; but the direction and forms of these lines are well given, and these indicate, in a considerable degree, the direction in which the forces increase and diminish . (Faraday 1852b , p.158 (3237))

Despite being static and two dimensional on paper, the lines of magnetic force were dynamical (Nersessian 1992 , 2008 ) and three dimensional for Faraday (see Fig.  2 b). For instance, Faraday described the lines of force “expanding”, “bending,” and “being cut” (Nersessian 1992 ). In Fig.  2 b, Faraday has summarized his experiment (bar magnet and knife blade) and its results (lines of force) in one picture.

(b) Analyzing and interpreting data: The model was so powerful for Faraday that he ended up thinking them as physical objects (e.g., Nersessian 1984 ), i.e., making interpretations of the way forces act. Of course, he made a lot of experiments for showing the physical existence of the lines of force, but he did not succeed in it (Nersessian 1984 ). The following quote illuminates Faraday’s use of the lines of force in different situations:

The study of these lines has, at different times, been greatly influential in leading me to various results, which I think prove their utility as well as fertility. Thus, the law of magneto-electric induction; the earth’s inductive action; the relation of magnetism and light; diamagnetic action and its law, and magnetocrystallic action, are the cases of this kind… (Faraday 1852a , p. 55 (3174))

(c) Experimenting: In Faraday's case, he used a lot of exploratory experiments; in case of lines of magnetic force, he used, e.g., iron filings, magnetic needles, or current carrying wires (see the quote above). The magnetic field is not directly observable and the representation of lines of force was a visual model, which includes the direction, form, and magnitude of field.

(d) Modeling: There is no denying that the lines of magnetic force are visual by nature. Faraday’s views of lines of force developed gradually during the years, and he applied and developed them in different contexts such as electromagnetic, electrostatic, and magnetic induction (Nersessian 1984 ). An example of Faraday’s explanation of the effect of the wire b’s position to experiment is given in Fig.  3 . In Fig.  3 , few magnetic lines of force are drawn, and in the quote below, Faraday is explaining the effect using these magnetic lines of force (emphasis added):

Picture of an experiment with different arrangements of wires ( a , b’ , b” ), magnet, and galvanometer. Note the lines of force drawn around the magnet. (Faraday 1852a , p. 34)

It will be evident by inspection of Fig. 3 , that, however the wires are carried away, the general result will, according to the assumed principles of action, be the same; for if a be the axial wire, and b’, b”, b”’ the equatorial wire, represented in three different positions, whatever magnetic lines of force pass across the latter wire in one position, will also pass it in the other, or in any other position which can be given to it. The distance of the wire at the place of intersection with the lines of force, has been shown, by the experiments (3093.), to be unimportant. (Faraday 1852a , p. 34 (3099))

In summary, by examining the history of Faraday’s use of lines of force, we showed how visual imagery and reasoning played an important part in Faraday’s construction and representation of his “field theory”. As Gooding has stated, “many of Faraday’s sketches are far more that depictions of observation, they are tools for reasoning with and about phenomena” (2006, p. 59).

Case study 3: visualizing scientific methods, the case of a journal

The focus of the third case study is the Journal of Visualized Experiments (JoVE) , a peer-reviewed publication indexed in PubMed. The journal devoted to the publication of biological, medical, chemical, and physical research in a video format. The journal describes its history as follows:

JoVE was established as a new tool in life science publication and communication, with participation of scientists from leading research institutions. JoVE takes advantage of video technology to capture and transmit the multiple facets and intricacies of life science research. Visualization greatly facilitates the understanding and efficient reproduction of both basic and complex experimental techniques, thereby addressing two of the biggest challenges faced by today's life science research community: i) low transparency and poor reproducibility of biological experiments and ii) time and labor-intensive nature of learning new experimental techniques. ( http://www.jove.com/ )

By examining the journal content, we generate a set of categories that can be considered as indicators of relevance and significance in terms of epistemic practices of science that have relevance for science education. For example, the quote above illustrates how scientists view some norms of scientific practice including the norms of “transparency” and “reproducibility” of experimental methods and results, and how the visual format of the journal facilitates the implementation of these norms. “Reproducibility” can be considered as an epistemic criterion that sits at the heart of what counts as an experimental procedure in science:

Investigating what should be reproducible and by whom leads to different types of experimental reproducibility, which can be observed to play different roles in experimental practice. A successful application of the strategy of reproducing an experiment is an achievement that may depend on certain isiosyncratic aspects of a local situation. Yet a purely local experiment that cannot be carried out by other experimenters and in other experimental contexts will, in the end be unproductive in science. (Sarkar and Pfeifer 2006 , p.270)

We now turn to an article on “Elevated Plus Maze for Mice” that is available for free on the journal website ( http://www.jove.com/video/1088/elevated-plus-maze-for-mice ). The purpose of this experiment was to investigate anxiety levels in mice through behavioral analysis. The journal article consists of a 9-min video accompanied by text. The video illustrates the handling of the mice in soundproof location with less light, worksheets with characteristics of mice, computer software, apparatus, resources, setting up the computer software, and the video recording of mouse behavior on the computer. The authors describe the apparatus that is used in the experiment and state how procedural differences exist between research groups that lead to difficulties in the interpretation of results:

The apparatus consists of open arms and closed arms, crossed in the middle perpendicularly to each other, and a center area. Mice are given access to all of the arms and are allowed to move freely between them. The number of entries into the open arms and the time spent in the open arms are used as indices of open space-induced anxiety in mice. Unfortunately, the procedural differences that exist between laboratories make it difficult to duplicate and compare results among laboratories.

The authors’ emphasis on the particularity of procedural context echoes in the observations of some philosophers of science:

It is not just the knowledge of experimental objects and phenomena but also their actual existence and occurrence that prove to be dependent on specific, productive interventions by the experimenters” (Sarkar and Pfeifer 2006 , pp. 270-271)

The inclusion of a video of the experimental procedure specifies what the apparatus looks like (Fig.  4 ) and how the behavior of the mice is captured through video recording that feeds into a computer (Fig.  5 ). Subsequently, a computer software which captures different variables such as the distance traveled, the number of entries, and the time spent on each arm of the apparatus. Here, there is visual information at different levels of representation ranging from reconfiguration of raw video data to representations that analyze the data around the variables in question (Fig.  6 ). The practice of levels of visual representations is not particular to the biological sciences. For instance, they are commonplace in nanotechnological practices:

Visual illustration of apparatus

Video processing of experimental set-up

Computer software for video input and variable recording

In the visualization processes, instruments are needed that can register the nanoscale and provide raw data, which needs to be transformed into images. Some Imaging Techniques have software incorporated already where this transformation automatically takes place, providing raw images. Raw data must be translated through the use of Graphic Software and software is also used for the further manipulation of images to highlight what is of interest to capture the (inferred) phenomena -- and to capture the reader. There are two levels of choice: Scientists have to choose which imaging technique and embedded software to use for the job at hand, and they will then have to follow the structure of the software. Within such software, there are explicit choices for the scientists, e.g. about colour coding, and ways of sharpening images. (Ruivenkamp and Rip 2010 , pp.14–15)

On the text that accompanies the video, the authors highlight the role of visualization in their experiment:

Visualization of the protocol will promote better understanding of the details of the entire experimental procedure, allowing for standardization of the protocols used in different laboratories and comparisons of the behavioral phenotypes of various strains of mutant mice assessed using this test.

The software that takes the video data and transforms it into various representations allows the researchers to collect data on mouse behavior more reliably. For instance, the distance traveled across the arms of the apparatus or the time spent on each arm would have been difficult to observe and record precisely. A further aspect to note is how the visualization of the experiment facilitates control of bias. The authors illustrate how the olfactory bias between experimental procedures carried on mice in sequence is avoided by cleaning the equipment.

Our discussion highlights the role of visualization in science, particularly with respect to presenting visualization as part of the scientific practices. We have used case studies from the history of science highlighting a scientist’s account of how visualization played a role in the discovery of DNA and the magnetic field and from a contemporary illustration of a science journal’s practices in incorporating visualization as a way to communicate new findings and methodologies. Our implicit aim in drawing from these case studies was the need to align science education with scientific practices, particularly in terms of how visual representations, stable or dynamic, can engage students in the processes of science and not only to be used as tools for cognitive development in science. Our approach was guided by the notion of “knowledge-as-practice” as advanced by Knorr Cetina ( 1999 ) who studied scientists and characterized their knowledge as practice, a characterization which shifts focus away from ideas inside scientists’ minds to practices that are cultural and deeply contextualized within fields of science. She suggests that people working together can be examined as epistemic cultures whose collective knowledge exists as practice.

It is important to stress, however, that visual representations are not used in isolation, but are supported by other types of evidence as well, or other theories (i.e., in order to understand the helical form of DNA, or the structure, chemistry knowledge was needed). More importantly, this finding can also have implications when teaching science as argument (e.g., Erduran and Jimenez-Aleixandre 2008 ), since the verbal evidence used in the science classroom to maintain an argument could be supported by visual evidence (either a model, representation, image, graph, etc.). For example, in a group of students discussing the outcomes of an introduced species in an ecosystem, pictures of the species and the ecosystem over time, and videos showing the changes in the ecosystem, and the special characteristics of the different species could serve as visual evidence to help the students support their arguments (Evagorou et al. 2012 ). Therefore, an important implication for the teaching of science is the use of visual representations as evidence in the science curriculum as part of knowledge production. Even though studies in the area of science education have focused on the use of models and modeling as a way to support students in the learning of science (Dori et al. 2003 ; Lehrer and Schauble 2012 ; Mendonça and Justi 2013 ; Papaevripidou et al. 2007 ) or on the use of images (i.e., Korfiatis et al. 2003 ), with the term using visuals as evidence, we refer to the collection of all forms of visuals and the processes involved.

Another aspect that was identified through the case studies is that of the visual reasoning (an integral part of Faraday’s investigations). Both the verbalization and visualization were part of the process of generating new knowledge (Gooding 2006 ). Even today, most of the textbooks use the lines of force (or just field lines) as a geometrical representation of field, and the number of field lines is connected to the quantity of flux. Often, the textbooks use the same kind of visual imagery than in what is used by scientists. However, when using images, only certain aspects or features of the phenomena or data are captured or highlighted, and often in tacit ways. Especially in textbooks, the process of producing the image is not presented and instead only the product—image—is left. This could easily lead to an idea of images (i.e., photos, graphs, visual model) being just representations of knowledge and, in the worse case, misinterpreted representations of knowledge as the results of Pocovi and Finlay ( 2002 ) in case of electric field lines show. In order to avoid this, the teachers should be able to explain how the images are produced (what features of phenomena or data the images captures, on what ground the features are chosen to that image, and what features are omitted); in this way, the role of visualization in knowledge production can be made “visible” to students by engaging them in the process of visualization.

The implication of these norms for science teaching and learning is numerous. The classroom contexts can model the generation, sharing and evaluation of evidence, and experimental procedures carried out by students, thereby promoting not only some contemporary cultural norms in scientific practice but also enabling the learning of criteria, standards, and heuristics that scientists use in making decisions on scientific methods. As we have demonstrated with the three case studies, visual representations are part of the process of knowledge growth and communication in science, as demonstrated with two examples from the history of science and an example from current scientific practices. Additionally, visual information, especially with the use of technology is a part of students’ everyday lives. Therefore, we suggest making use of students’ knowledge and technological skills (i.e., how to produce their own videos showing their experimental method or how to identify or provide appropriate visual evidence for a given topic), in order to teach them the aspects of the nature of science that are often neglected both in the history of science and the design of curriculum. Specifically, what we suggest in this paper is that students should actively engage in visualization processes in order to appreciate the diverse nature of doing science and engage in authentic scientific practices.

However, as a word of caution, we need to distinguish the products and processes involved in visualization practices in science:

If one considers scientific representations and the ways in which they can foster or thwart our understanding, it is clear that a mere object approach, which would devote all attention to the representation as a free-standing product of scientific labor, is inadequate. What is needed is a process approach: each visual representation should be linked with its context of production (Pauwels 2006 , p.21).

The aforementioned suggests that the emphasis in visualization should shift from cognitive understanding—using the products of science to understand the content—to engaging in the processes of visualization. Therefore, an implication for the teaching of science includes designing curriculum materials and learning environments that create a social and epistemic context and invite students to engage in the practice of visualization as evidence, reasoning, experimental procedure, or a means of communication (as presented in the three case studies) and reflect on these practices (Ryu et al. 2015 ).

Finally, a question that arises from including visualization in science education, as well as from including scientific practices in science education is whether teachers themselves are prepared to include them as part of their teaching (Bybee 2014 ). Teacher preparation programs and teacher education have been critiqued, studied, and rethought since the time they emerged (Cochran-Smith 2004 ). Despite the years of history in teacher training and teacher education, the debate about initial teacher training and its content still pertains in our community and in policy circles (Cochran-Smith 2004 ; Conway et al. 2009 ). In the last decades, the debate has shifted from a behavioral view of learning and teaching to a learning problem—focusing on that way not only on teachers’ knowledge, skills, and beliefs but also on making the connection of the aforementioned with how and if pupils learn (Cochran-Smith 2004 ). The Science Education in Europe report recommended that “Good quality teachers, with up-to-date knowledge and skills, are the foundation of any system of formal science education” (Osborne and Dillon 2008 , p.9).

However, questions such as what should be the emphasis on pre-service and in-service science teacher training, especially with the new emphasis on scientific practices, still remain unanswered. As Bybee ( 2014 ) argues, starting from the new emphasis on scientific practices in the NGSS, we should consider teacher preparation programs “that would provide undergraduates opportunities to learn the science content and practices in contexts that would be aligned with their future work as teachers” (p.218). Therefore, engaging pre- and in-service teachers in visualization as a scientific practice should be one of the purposes of teacher preparation programs.

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Evagorou, M., Erduran, S. & Mäntylä, T. The role of visual representations in scientific practices: from conceptual understanding and knowledge generation to ‘seeing’ how science works. IJ STEM Ed 2 , 11 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-015-0024-x

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Why Representation Matters and Why It’s Still Not Enough

Reflections on growing up brown, queer, and asian american..

Posted December 27, 2021 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

• Positive media representation can be helpful in increasing self-esteem for people of marginalized groups (especially youth).
• Interpersonal contact and exposure through media representation can assist in reducing stereotypes of underrepresented groups.
• Representation in educational curricula and social media can provide validation and support, especially for youth of marginalized groups.

Growing up as a Brown Asian American child of immigrants, I never really saw anyone who looked like me in the media. The TV shows and movies I watched mostly concentrated on blonde-haired, white, or light-skinned protagonists. They also normalized western and heterosexist ideals and behaviors, while hardly ever depicting things that reflected my everyday life. For example, it was equally odd and fascinating that people on TV didn’t eat rice at every meal; that their parents didn’t speak with accents; or that no one seemed to navigate a world of daily microaggressions . Despite these observations, I continued to absorb this mass media—internalizing messages of what my life should be like or what I should aspire to be like.

Because there were so few media images of people who looked like me, I distinctly remember the joy and validation that emerged when I did see those representations. Filipino American actors like Ernie Reyes, Nia Peeples, Dante Basco, and Tia Carrere looked like they could be my cousins. Each time they sporadically appeared in films and television series throughout my youth, their mere presence brought a sense of pride. However, because they never played Filipino characters (e.g., Carrere was Chinese American in Wayne's World ) or their racial identities remained unaddressed (e.g., Basco as Rufio in Hook ), I did not know for certain that they were Filipino American like me. And because the internet was not readily accessible (nor fully informational) until my late adolescence , I could not easily find out.

Through my Ethnic Studies classes as an undergraduate student (and my later research on Asian American and Filipino American experiences with microaggressions), I discovered that my perspectives were not that unique. Many Asian Americans and other people of color often struggle with their racial and ethnic identity development —with many citing how a lack of media representation negatively impacts their self-esteem and overall views of their racial or cultural groups. Scholars and community leaders have declared mottos like how it's "hard to be what you can’t see," asserting that people from marginalized groups do not pursue career or academic opportunities when they are not exposed to such possibilities. For example, when women (and women of color specifically) don’t see themselves represented in STEM fields , they may internalize that such careers are not made for them. When people of color don’t see themselves in the arts or in government positions, they likely learn similar messages too.

Complicating these messages are my intersectional identities as a queer person of color. In my teens, it was heartbreakingly lonely to witness everyday homophobia (especially unnecessary homophobic language) in almost all television programming. The few visual examples I saw of anyone LGBTQ involved mostly white, gay, cisgender people. While there was some comfort in seeing them navigate their coming out processes or overcome heterosexism on screen, their storylines often appeared unrealistic—at least in comparison to the nuanced homophobia I observed in my religious, immigrant family. In some ways, not seeing LGBTQ people of color in the media kept me in the closet for years.

How representation can help

Representation can serve as opportunities for minoritized people to find community support and validation. For example, recent studies have found that social media has given LGBTQ young people the outlets to connect with others—especially when the COVID-19 pandemic has limited in-person opportunities. Given the increased suicidal ideation, depression , and other mental health issues among LGBTQ youth amidst this global pandemic, visibility via social media can possibly save lives. Relatedly, taking Ethnic Studies courses can be valuable in helping students to develop a critical consciousness that is culturally relevant to their lives. In this way, representation can allow students of color to personally connect to school, potentially making their educational pursuits more meaningful.

Further, representation can be helpful in reducing negative stereotypes about other groups. Initially discussed by psychologist Dr. Gordon Allport as Intergroup Contact Theory, researchers believed that the more exposure or contact that people had to groups who were different from them, the less likely they would maintain prejudice . Literature has supported how positive LGBTQ media representation helped transform public opinions about LGBTQ people and their rights. In 2019, the Pew Research Center reported that the general US population significantly changed their views of same-sex marriage in just 15 years—with 60% of the population being opposed in 2004 to 61% in favor in 2019. While there are many other factors that likely influenced these perspective shifts, studies suggest that positive LGBTQ media depictions played a significant role.

For Asian Americans and other groups who have been historically underrepresented in the media, any visibility can feel like a win. For example, Gold House recently featured an article in Vanity Fair , highlighting the power of Asian American visibility in the media—citing blockbuster films like Crazy Rich Asians and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings . Asian American producers like Mindy Kaling of Never Have I Ever and The Sex Lives of College Girls demonstrate how influential creators of color can initiate their own projects and write their own storylines, in order to directly increase representation (and indirectly increase mental health and positive esteem for its audiences of color).

When representation is not enough

However, representation simply is not enough—especially when it is one-dimensional, superficial, or not actually representative. Some scholars describe how Asian American media depictions still tend to reinforce stereotypes, which may negatively impact identity development for Asian American youth. Asian American Studies is still needed to teach about oppression and to combat hate violence. Further, representation might also fail to reflect the true diversity of communities; historically, Brown Asian Americans have been underrepresented in Asian American media, resulting in marginalization within marginalized groups. For example, Filipino Americans—despite being the first Asian American group to settle in the US and one of the largest immigrant groups—remain underrepresented across many sectors, including academia, arts, and government.

Representation should never be the final goal; instead, it should merely be one step toward equity. Having a diverse cast on a television show is meaningless if those storylines promote harmful stereotypes or fail to address societal inequities. Being the “first” at anything is pointless if there aren’t efforts to address the systemic obstacles that prevent people from certain groups from succeeding in the first place.

Instead, representation should be intentional. People in power should aim for their content to reflect their audiences—especially if they know that doing so could assist in increasing people's self-esteem and wellness. People who have the opportunity to represent their identity groups in any sector may make conscious efforts to use their influence to teach (or remind) others that their communities exist. Finally, parents and teachers can be more intentional in ensuring that their children and students always feel seen and validated. By providing youth with visual representations of people they can relate to, they can potentially save future generations from a lifetime of feeling underrepresented or misunderstood.

Kevin Leo Yabut Nadal, Ph.D., is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the City University of New York and the author of books including Microaggressions and Traumatic Stress .

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Quotes & Sayings About Visual Representation

Enjoy reading and share 16 famous quotes about Visual Representation with everyone.

Top Visual Representation Quotes

What are the visual and narrative processes by which animals engage with their own representation? — Susan McHugh

Allowing artist-illustrators to control the design and content of statistical graphics is almost like allowing typographers to control the content, style, and editing of prose. — Edward R. Tufte

One of the most pervasive mistakes is to believe that our visual system gives a faithful representation of what is "out there" in the same way that a movie camera would. — David Eagleman

I looked at the stone, fragmented and cratered by my rage and jealousy. So this was a visual representation of a Diabolic's affection, then: an ugly, broken, blood-spattered stone. — S.J. Kincaid

The popular eye is not untrained; it is only wrongly trained - trained by inferior and insincere visual representation s. — Ben Shahn

In many respects, theater is still grappling with problems of reality and representation that the visual art movement realized were unimportant many years ago. — Tim Crouch

The slow zone, based on the sensor data we're able to get, is approximately one million kilometers across." Holden pointed at the 3D representation on the screen behind him. "There are no visible stars, so the location of the zone is impossible to determine. The boundary is made up of one thousand three hundred and seventy-three individual rings evenly spaced into a sphere. So far, the only one we've been able to find that's 'open' is the one we came through. The fleets we traveled out with are still visible on the other side, though the Ring seems to distort visual and sensor data, making readings through it unreliable. — James S.A. Corey

Drawing is the representation of form - the graphic expression of a visual experience. — Walter J. Phillips

Visual representation of it is essential if we're to come to terms with what it is we've done. — Alex Cox

A photograph presents itself not only as a visual representation , but as evidence, more convincing than a painting because of the unimpeachable mechanical means whereby it was made. We do not trust the artist's flattering hand; but we do trust film, and shadows, and light. — John Updike

In my work, the information is the least important part. It's there, and the work wouldn't mean the same thing without it, but it isn't structured around the information. The most interesting part to me is the visual play ... looking at this little universe of representation that I can make out of the world. — Judy Fiskin

I always look at that stuff as something that's not a separate entity from the music but a visual representation of the music. I feel like your external appearance should be in harmony with your internal appearance. That's mainly our approach to the visuals. — Taraka Larson

We all accept the visual shorthand used throughout comics: if something's farther away, it'll be drawn with a thinner, simpler line, eventually leaving out most visual information and becoming a gesture, a skeletal representation of a thing. — Nate Powell

The postmodernist critique of representation undermines the referential status of visual imagery, its claim to represent reality as it really is - either the appearance of things or some ideal order behind or beyond appearance. — Craig Owens

PowerPoint is like being trapped in the style of early Egyptian flatland cartoons rather than using the more effective tools of Renaissance visual representation . — Edward R. Tufte

Can the vast technology beneath our gaze be anything but a representation? Any optical artifact ... The city panorama is a theoretical (ie visual) simulacrum: in short, a picture, of which the preconditions for feasibility are forgetfulness and a misunderstanding of processes. — Michel De Certeau

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