This session we'll be discussing the different types of balance within a composition. Balance is the visual weight of elements within a design, and is necessary for a complete and healthy work of art. Some terms we'll explore are below.
- Symmetrical Balance
- Asymmetrical Balance
- Radial Balance
- Crystallographic Balance
Below are some examples.
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Symmetrical Balance is achieved when one side (left, right, top or bottom) is similar or identical to it's opposite, symmetrically flipped over either the X or the Y axis.The image below shows this type of balance. If the left or right side were flipped onto the other, it would look nearly identical.
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The opposite of Symmetry is known as Asymmetry, and an asymmetrical image can also be balanced.
The left side of the above image is heavy with shape and line, but it is balanced by the right side by the color of the smaller circle. In the painting below, the dark-heavy right side is balanced by the light bottom left.
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| Another painting that has been graciously allowed to be used by Justin Comley. |
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Radial Balance is when the elements of the design radiate out from the center of a focal area. Radial Balance can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical, depending on the placement of the focal point. In the image below, the tentacles radiate from the center, creating this type of balance.
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Crystallographic Balance (or allover pattern) is the final type of balance. It is achieved by no single element having the focus within the work, so that the attention is called to the design as a whole. A checkerboard might be considered to have this type of visual balance. The painting shown below exhibits this type of balance as well.
No single piece attracts the eye, allowing the viewer to see the piece as a whole instead of separate elements.
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It should be kept in mind that a work of art or design doesn't need to be balanced in order to be successful. Without balance, a work of art leaves the viewer with a sense of unease or tension. If this is the desire of the artist or designer, then they may choose to imbalance a work of art.
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No images used with permission, other than those made by Justin Comley, because he said it's ok.
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