Contrast is, in my humble opinion, the most crucial tenet of graphic design. It instantly forges connections and distinctions between elements and, when used in concert with other tools like a grid, it helps our viewers discern what’s vital, what’s related, and what’s not. That information gives readers the ability to navigate our designs efficiently. Without contrast, everything on a page may appear similar in size and importance, leaving a viewer the choice of either reading and decoding every bit of information or bouncing away to look at adorable cat GIFs.Jason Santa Maria.