A reference for understanding visual decisions and finding ideas. Start with an image you like, or a problem you want to solve: make something stand apart, connect parts, guide attention, or suggest a meaning.
The four levels ask: what are you trying to do (operation), what are you working with (domain), what move could help (technique), and how does it work in an example (execution)? Use Iris as a lookup tool, not a calculator that promises one correct solution.
Created by Modern Art Direction. Iris is a working taxonomy informed by design practice and research. Its categories and image annotations are argued interpretations, not a complete science of seeing or proof of a maker’s intent. Sources and limits are explained below.
Explore, compare, share
- Follow a path. Select an image or technique to see its connections. Solid image lines identify one or two defining techniques; dotted image lines identify supporting techniques. Separate dashed technique–domain lines show additional placements in the taxonomy. Variable labels name the properties involved.
- Build a comparison. Click an image to highlight it before dragging it to rearrange. Dragging an unselected image pans the canvas. Use Multi-select to tap images, Shift-click individual images, or hold Shift and drag a boundary around several images. Release to add images whose centers are inside; Escape cancels the boundary. Compare gathers the selection while keeping the taxonomy visible. Drag selected images to move them together; hold Space to pan over selected images.
- Frame your view. Fit frames the selection and its techniques, or the whole map when nothing is selected. Back returns to the broader scope; All resets to the overview.
- Share a study. The share icon opens a preview with a selection link, image download and image copying where supported. Exports use a new portrait composition, not a screenshot of your camera view.
- Access and sharing. The full library requires active member or invited course access. Shared spotlights show only their published selection and connections. Opening the full library checks access. Downloads and Feedback require member access. The Iris email waitlist is separate and does not grant access.
No matching techniques
Try another search or variable, or return to the full map.