Balance Collage

 Balance is one of the Principles of Design.

It refers to arranging the different elements of a picture in an even, equal way.

There are three main ways to create balance:



Symmetrical Balance (also called Bilateral Symmetry) is when the picture can be divided in half and both sides are the same.


Radial Balance (also called Radial Symmetry) is when the picture can be divided into multiple sections, like slices of a pie, and each section is the same.


Asymmetrical Balance is a little trickier. The two halves of the picture are NOT the same but feel "equal." You might have two different objects of equal sizes, like this example:


You might also have one big object balanced by two smaller objects, like this:



For your assignment, you will be making a cut paper collage with three sections - one for each of the types of balance.


Step 1: Choose a layout


Step 2: Choose your color scheme. Pick a base color and UP TO 4 other colors. Use the same colors in all three of your designs. 

In this example, the white paper is the base color. The black paper is the big sheet everything is glued onto at the end - this does NOT count as one of your colors.

Step 3: Start cutting out shapes. For the Bilateral Balance you will need 2 of each shape. For the Radial Balance, you will need 4 or more of each shape, unless it's in the middle of the design.


Tips:

  • Start with a few LARGE shapes that break up the background. Add smaller and smaller shapes as you go, being careful to keep the overall image both balanced and interesting. 
  • Think about placement BEFORE you glue. The shapes should look like they are placed in relationship with each other and not just randomly distributed.
  • Test the balance by turning the composition around, looking at it from several different directions


Success Criteria:
  • Choose one base color and up to four other colors.
  • Measure and cut your base papers to match your chosen template.
  • Create three designs - (bilateral) symmetry, radial symmetry, and asymmetry. ALL THREE should:
    • Clearly show one type of balance
    • Be thoughtfully arranged and layered
    • Show good craftsmanship when cutting and gluing



Review Book Success Criteria:
  • Divide your paper into three sections
  • Draw pictures or abstract designs that show each type of balance: bilateral symmetry, radial symmetry, and asymmetrical balance
  • Color or shade your designs




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