1. Collagism – Make it un-perfect.

The inspiration behind the collage is to create something new out of old pieces. The collage style in web design consists of elements such as paper, tape and grungy or dirty textures. Drips, sprays, splatters and coffee stains are also hallmarks of the collage. This style has a sense of tangibility and is a counterpoint to the geometrically clean perfection that computers naturally exude.

1.1 Collagist Art Example:

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2. Ornamentalism – Interior decorating.

Ornamental design can be similar to the collage, but the essence of the ‘fleur de lis’ and Art Nouveau ornamentation separate this style from the rest. It is often seen on the web in background patterns or framing elements. Ornamental design is inspired by architecture, where ornaments are applied as decorative accents from stone, wood, precious metals or plaster.

2.1 Ornamentalism Art Example:

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3. Glossism – Reflective, isn’t it?

This is the most popular style on the web today. You’ve seen it everywhere; it best embodies the phrase ‘Web 2.0’ when referring to design. It includes gradients with jewel-tone colors that are so shiny you just want to lick your monitor. Reflections, gradients and glossy buttons are fundamental for this web design movement.

3.1 Glossism Art Example:

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4. Wordism – Words Become Art.

This movement is inspired heavily by the print world and is predominantly seen as the digital counterpart of traditional magazines in e-zines. Its characteristics use an overall grid-like layout and powerful typography in lieu of decorations or design elements. The typography itself becomes a visual stimulant, making it almost unnecessary to add other photographs, illustrations or decoration.

4.1 Wordism Art Example:

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5. Futurism — Think Like a Trekkie.

This was one of the first design movements on the web, but it’s not often used today. In the future I could see this making a comeback — not in exactly the same way but with a new twist. This style is translated through geometric shapes such as computer circuits, motherboards and mechanical gears.

5.1 Futurism Art Example:

6. Minimalism – Less is More.

The minimalist movement was a response to the abuse our senses took from early web pages when busy backgrounds, blink tags and rainbow colored text were the norm. “Minimalism” is a term coined by the art and literature circles to describe a movement toward extreme simplification of form and color. Minimalism, as it relates to web design, focuses on usability, aesthetics and letting the content be the star.

6.1 Minimalism Art Example:

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7. Retroism — A Blast from the Past.

Retro design can draw from anything in the past, such as the illustrative look of the 50’s, the flower power of the 60’s, disco of the 70’s or even the cool pop art of the 80’s. Mainstream styles and graphics of these eras were restricted by the limitations of the technology of the day.

7.1 Retroism design Example:

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