Utilization of mobile icons and emojis in digital design of the 21st century

In this thesis, the origin of the "emoji and icon" designs that have developed with the new media and have become the visual language of the 21st century communication together with today's usage patterns are examined. The digital image created at the intersection of art and technology starting from the pictogram, ideogram and petroglyphs has its origins in two-dimensional painting art. In addition, the connection of visual designs with the historical process and their evolution under the influence of art are explained. In designs that developed after the industrialization, with the effect of currents such as Dadaism, Pop-Art, in addition to the use of contrast and large stains, the fast and reproducible designs have gained importance. In addition, the effects of the simplicity brought by developments such as Bauhaus, De Stijl and the International Typographic Style influenced by De Stijl, to today's digital design have been described chronologically. The icons and emojis preferred by their being lively, interactive, and easily understandable features against the monotony of the writing have enabled the visual communication culture to develop in digital platforms. For the 21st century people who do not want to spend time with words, the use of social media and the use of symbols that represent increasing emotions reveal today's power of digital communication. While there is a direct transfer by describing the subject or event with only visuality in history, instant and mutual interaction is provided with digital icons designed based on technological developments and user experience and interaction. Icons can now be customized and can also be used in motion and sound. Symbols from the past are used in digital icon designs with their current versions. In addition, the idea of creating a universal language of signs is discussed in detail. The positive and negative aspects of emoji and icons, which have become a short model of communication, being simple enough for the audience of all ages, have been examined, and the bond of humanity with these icons has been investigated in detail.