In one aspect, a 2D machine readable code is mimicked by a collection of graphic elements. This can involve choosing a location, within an input 2D code block, at which correlation between a first graphic element and the input 2D code block is maximized. An area around this location is then disqualified from further consideration. A second location is next chosen, within the input 2D code block but outside the disqualified area, at which correlation between a second graphic element and the input 2D code block is maximized. The process continues in this fashion, adding graphics and removing additional areas from consideration, until a threshold number of graphic elements has been placed. The elements are then assembled in their corresponding locations to yield a composite image block that provides features mimicking that of the input 2D code block, thereby enabling the composite image block to be decoded by a compliant code reader. A great variety of other signal rich art arrangements are also detailed.