From the book Visual Literacy: A Conceptual Approach to Graphic Problem Solving, by Judith Wilde and Richard Wilde (1991):

Graphic Designers often use geometry to communicate an idea. Using the circles, squares, and triangles indicated on the assignment sheet as focal points, create eighteen identifiable images by adding other elements while maintaining the integrity of the original shapes. Solutions must be executed with technical proficiency in black and white, unless your concept dictates otherwise.

Example:

Due Date:
One week

Project:
Create a pictogram that conveys the essential storyline of a famous book or movie, in a simple, clear, FUN and easy-to-understand way. 

Objectives:

• Approach a problem from a unique perspective.
• Streamline a complex storyline into a simple, clear visual narrative.
• Improve your drawing skills with Adobe Illustrator.
• Draw simply but well.
• Consider the design of the whole page.

Pictograms

• Graphic stylized symbols
• Visual symbols that give information
• Pictures without words
• Graphic symbols that tell a story in a simple way
• A way to communicate messages without words
• Universal, visual, wordless language

This kind of symbol surround us in our daily lives.:

• signs 
  • on the street
  • in supermarkets
  • in department stores
  • in public buildings
  • on roads

• show us where to find
  • telephones
  • restrooms
  • train stations
  • airports
  • restaurants

examples:

• Sharp Curve Ahead
• Slow!: Children
• Specific Olympics Sports

To Start:

View and discuss the pictogram designs of H-57 and Viktor Hertz in our galleries section of this site:

Pictogram Movie Posters gallery

The images below were created by the graphic design firm  H-57.

​The images below were created by the graphic designer Viktor Hertz.