Understanding the visual resource

Abstract

Understanding our visual resources involves a complex interweaving of motivation and cognitive recesses; but, more important, it requires that we understand and can identify those characteristics of a landscape that influence the image formation process. From research conducted in Florida, three major variables were identified that appear to have significant effect upon visual preferences: (1) visual order, (2) visual complexity, and (3) edge relationships. The interaction of these variables produces spatial definition, which promotes or retards a sense of physical, visual, and psychological access. Without an understanding of the mechanisms and principles involved, landscape management to promote environmental integrity is strictly a hit-or-miss proposition.

Parent Publication

• Recreation Symposium Proceedings

Citation

Newby, Floyd L. 1971. Understanding the visual resource. In: Larson, E.vH., ed. The Forest Recreation Symposium. State University of New York College of Forestry; 1971 October 12-14: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 68-72.