figure/ground similarity proximity closure comtinuance translation rotation reflection glide/reflection dilation structured space symmetric balance
content
asymmetric balance ambiguous balance neutral balance
figure/ground
the fundamental law of perception that allows us to “read� imagery.
similarity
we tend to see figures with similar characteristics—eg: shape, color, texture, etc. as belonging together.
proximity
we tend to see figures with similar characteristics—eg: shape, color, texture, etc. as belonging together.
closure
we tend to visually “close” or “complete” figures that seem open or unresolved
continuance
we tend to see figures that are arranged a certain way as continuing beyond what can be seen.
translation
moving an object along a predetermined axis while retaining its shape and proportions
rotation
rotating a figure around a fixed point while retaining its original size, shape and proportions
reflection
flipping an image over an imaginary axis so that it appears relected as though in a mirror
glide/reflection
reflecting a shape while simultaneously “gliding� it into a new position
dilation
enlarging a shape while maintaining its original proportions.
structure 1
structure 2
structure 3
structure 4
structure 5
structure 6
symmetric balance
characterized by a central axis and regularity, congruency, proportion, passivity, restfulness, static, inactivity, and stability.
asymmetric balance
characterized by irregular or unequal arrangements between compositional elements relative to a central axis; dynamic, active, stressful, tense
ambiguous balance
characterized by a lack of, or unclear, relationships between compositional elements; vague, indefinite
neutral balance
characterized by randomness and ambiguous equilibrium; nonactive, lacking emphasis or contrast
lauren lanigan, Š 2012 completed as a requirement for visual communication in the graphic design department at the kansas city art institute. michael kidwell, assistant professor.