BALANCE
What type of balance is achieved when elements are evenly arranged around a central axis?
Symmetrical balance
What is the focal point in an artwork?
The area that attracts the viewer’s attention first.
What type of perspective uses converging lines to create depth?
Linear perspective
What is the term for the area occupied by the main subject in an artwork?
Positive space
What is one way to balance a large light-colored shape in an asymmetrical composition?
By placing a smaller, darker shape on the opposite side since dark tones appear heavier.
Name a composition where elements radiate from a central point.
Radial balance
How does high contrast help create a focal point?
It draws attention by making certain areas stand out due to strong differences in color, value, or texture.
How does aerial perspective affect distant objects?
Distant objects appear lighter, less detailed, and have a bluish or grayish tint due to atmospheric scattering.
What kind of space refers to the background or empty areas surrounding a subject?
Negative space
How does texture distribution contribute to visual balance?
A highly textured area can balance a smoother region by drawing attention.
Which type of balance creates harmony without mirroring elements?
Asymmetrical balance
What compositional guideline places the focal point at key intersections for visual impact?
The rule of thirds
What technique involves compressing parts of an object to create an illusion of depth?
Foreshortening
What type of lines convey movement or emotion?
Expressive lines
What is the role of directional flow in composition?
It guides the viewer’s eye through the artwork using lines, movement, or placement of elements.
What technique in symmetrical balance involves repeating shapes, colors, or motifs?
Repetition & Pattern
Name two techniques that use space to emphasize a focal point.
Isolation & Negative Space
Describe how overlapping elements enhance depth in a composition.
Objects in front appear closer, while those behind seem further away, creating a sense of spatial layering.
What is the difference between geometric and organic lines?
Geometric lines are precise and structured, while organic lines are free-flowing and mimic natural forms.
Explain how framing affects symmetrical balance.
Placing a dominant subject in the center reinforces symmetry by naturally dividing the composition evenly.
Explain how the rule of thirds can contribute to asymmetrical balance.
By placing key elements at off-center intersections, it distributes visual weight dynamically without mirroring.
How does color psychology influence focal points in composition?
Warm colors (red, orange, yellow) appear more dominant and come forward, while cool colors (blue, green, violet) recede.
Compare and contrast linear perspective and aerial perspective.
Linear perspective relies on vanishing points and converging lines, while aerial perspective creates depth through color, contrast, and detail changes.
How do contour lines help describe form in an artwork?
They define edges and surface ridges, creating the illusion of volume without shading.
Why does uneven placement disrupt radial balance?
Radial balance relies on equal spacing around a central point; uneven placement makes the composition feel unbalanced.