Principles of Two-Dimensional Design

Unity can be defined as similarity, oneness, togetherness, or cohesion and variety can be defined as difference. We face a new compositional challenge with each design we make. Each idea has its own expressive requirements.

Vija Celmins, Untitled (Ocean), 1969. Graphite on acrylic ground on paper.

Balance refers to the distribution of weight of force within a composition. Symmetrical balance occurs when shapes are mirrored on either side of an axis. Approximate symmetry is created when similar images appears on either side of a central axis.

Richard Estes, Miami Rug Company, 1974. Oil on canvas.

Scale and proportion create two types of size relationships. Both strongly affect compositional balance and emotional impact. Proportion refers to the relative size of visual elements within an image. Scale commonly refers to the size of a form when compared with our own human size.

Proportion is an essential part of figure drawing.