Pimped Pixels New Theme

[Kliddy 104]

I restarted my design for the forum theme I wanted to create, and I am going for a more professional/modern feel to it. What do you guys think so far? 

 

[Charon 73]

Honestly I think it's a bit dull for an art forum. I understand the desire to make it look more current and professional and in that respect is a nice design. However, the layout should represent the spirit of the site and I just don't think that screams 'creativity' (that's only a very small section though so it's hard to give feedback without knowing your full concept).

[Kliddy 104]

It's not supposed to be graphic heavy. I wasn't attempting at another theme that consists of repeated graphic patterns that every forum has. Hence why the modern, flat design. Thanks for your critique. 

[Charon 73]

You misinterpret my meaning completely.  It doesn't need to be graphics heavy and it doesn't need to look like every other gfx forum, but it should look inviting to a creative individual and represent the concept of the site.  This white and single color layout looks very corporate.  There is a difference between corporate and professional.  It can look professional AND artistic.  This current design just doesn't say 'community' or 'creativity' and those two messages are very important.  You're definitely right that most gfx forums have a similar feel, and people recognize that and it gives them that sense of a creative community.  If you're going to move away from that, then you need to find a way to still give off that vibe.

 

What I'm suggesting is you trying to incorporate either more colors/a more inviting color scheme, or a few key images/effects to make the layout pop.  You could even just do what most artistic portfolios do and keep the layout super simple and plain and just utilize the art to make it pop by adding a plug in for featured art or something (similar to this: https://www.photography-forum.org/forums/ once you scroll through the horrible text at the top and actually get to the forum).

 

Again, this is only a small portion so you could still achieve an artistic look using what you've got, but that piece as a standalone element doesn't look like it represents an artistic site.

[Kliddy 104]

I hear you. I fixed a few things. Still a lot to do though. It's the default IPB theme

[SGTROCK 1,671]

The only comment I would make is the white is such a strong colour, so whilst it has plenty of visual Impact from a practicle sense it is'nt the the best colour to display art works against, traditionally photos and graphics are stored against a dark colour?

 

To a certain extent I agree with Gina that it's about finding the right balance between modern and creative, not an easy job mate, definitely like what you have so far mate:)

[Kliddy 104]

You're right about the graphic pieces looking better on the dark background. I guess I was just so interested in figuring out what's what (first time coding IPB) and trying to make it look good. I'll figure it out

[Charon 73]

I don't know that I necessarily agree that art looks best on dark skins. Honestly, I think dark skins tend to be just a fad in forums because there's a belief that it is easier on the eyes. If you think about traditional art, photography and prints in general, the most common basic framing method for displaying artwork in galleries/shows is with a 2" white mat and a thinner black frame.

 

Lots of forums that utilize multiple skins give members options between dark and light skins because it really is just personal preference. It would be cool if no matter what color scheme you go with, you had a dark and light option available.

 

Also, for a first time coding an IPB soon you're doing really well. It all just comes down to css so I'm sure you'll get it down REAL quick.

[SGTROCK 1,671]

You're right about the graphic pieces looking better on the dark background. I guess I was just so interested in figuring out what's what (first time coding IPB) and trying to make it look good. I'll figure it out

Lol sure you will Kev, keep up the awesome work mate

[Velvet Minx 2]

I like it but yes white color is so strong

[Maniak_uk 5,063]

Nice start m8 but i do prefer a darker theme :'> kiu