Balance

BALANCE• Balance refers to the distribution of

visual weight in an artwork. The visual weight is created by the various art elements in the art

work.

FORMAL BALANCE• When elements on

both sides of a central vertical or

horizontal line appear to be equal or close to equal.

• A.K.A.-Symmetrical or

Classical Balance

Symmetry• When both sides of a balanced

composition are identical (mirror images of each other).

RADIAL BALANCE• When all the

elements radiate out from a central point.

INFORMAL BALANCE• Involves two sides or

halves that contain elements that are

different, but yet are still in visual

balance.• A.K.A.- Asymetrical

Balance

WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS

element heavier lighter

contour/shape

larger, complex,

interesting

smaller, simple

WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS

element heavier lighter

Color Bright/Warm Dull/Cool

WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS

element heavier lighter

Value Most Contrast

Least Contrast

element heavier lighter

Lineheavy, dark

and complicated

light and simple

texture rough smooth

WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS

POSITION-large objects near the center of a work can be

balanced by a smaller object placed far from the center