So I am learning about graphic design from the ground up starting with the fundamental elements and principles.
As I delve deeper into the subject reading more and more about principles like unity/harmony, balance, and design overall, I have come to the following conclusion:
One of the functions of graphic design is aiding the viewer of a piece of work to discover the essence of the artifact, the underlying message that you as the designer is trying to communicate, it is like a storytelling exercise where you as the designer are the author, or, a journey where you as the designer act as a guide, directing the viewer through the work using the elements and principles as tools to reach the ultimate conclusion which would be the message you're trying to communicate.
Would this be a correct analysis or am I completely off and if so (I wouldn't be surprised) where am I going wrong?