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Design principles are the foundation of a good design. The design principles you learned will guide you in creating visual media. An efficient design will guide the viewer to see what you intend for them to look in the way you intended for them to see it.
One major component of a good design is a balance. A balanced composition is aesthetically pleasing.
Balance addresses the truth that while you can create focal points to emphasize certain parts of the composition, they will still be able to see the entire structure. Balance involves making sure the piece functions as a whole by balancing both the positive elements and negative space.
Visual weight and direction go hand and hand with visual balance. Vision weight measures the amount the eye is drawn to a certain composition. On the other hand, visual direction describes the course the eye perceives an element would move in the physical world.
Good visual balance design assures that the viewer spends their time looking at components that you want them to by maintaining the balance of the piece. It helps keep their concentration, so they receive the intended information.
The type of balance that is most used to create a visually exciting effect is an asymmetrical balance.
Two Types of Balance
Before going into the discussion on asymmetrical balance, we must define its contrast, also known as the symmetrical balance.
Symmetrical balance is created when we disperse all the compositional elements of a piece equally around a center point. You can get an idea of this by drawing an imaginary line across the center of a composition. If each side relatively mirrors each other than the piece is said to be symmetrical.
Symmetrical balance can be used to express a sense of formality and order. You can see this in the architecture of the White House, a symbol of rationality and permanence.
In contrast, asymmetrical balance is not a lack of symmetry, but rather the absence of any symmetry at all. An asymmetry is created by the unequal distribution of visual weight. It can be seen efficiently used in Japanese art.
Why Use Asymmetry?
Asymmetrical balance is considered to be more lively, dynamic, and visually appealing. It sends a feeling of excitement, movement, and modernism.
The logo designs for Youtube, Facebook and Nike are famous examples of asymmetrical balance.
This type of balance is more challenging to implement because it involves a complex relationship between the elements. This leads most designers to avoid asymmetrical design.
The asymmetrical design grabs the attention of viewers. Learning how to use it properly is essential for any designer. Tactful mixing of symmetrical and asymmetrical elements creates a right balance while still being bold.
Asymmetry is perfect to use for minimalist designs. The uneven visual balance contrasts with similar elements. It helps create movement because the eyes naturally take directional clues from the piece. This includes moving from heavier objects to smaller ones and from darker to lighter shades.
Should I Use Asymmetrical Balance?
The Sydney Opera House and City Hall in London, England are examples of a daring asymmetrical design
The simple answer is, yes, you should.
But how?
There are a variety of ways to create an asymmetrical balance. You can use tone, texture, and weight.
- make elements of different sizes
- use texture to make an element appear heavier
- use bold colors instead of muted colors
- place elements near the corner or edge which gives a sense of heaviness
Color contrasts work well for geometric shapes, typography, and background.
The use of negative space can help you achieve asymmetrical balance. Space also creates an automatic asymmetry. The eye is drawn automatically to the visible components if there are a few elements and a lot of negative space.
The famous Google homepage is an example of a minimalist design.
Visual balance is important for designers and artists. It is what artists use to establish their brand,promote and convey their message. The viewer might not see all parts of the design and miss a vital part of the information without it.
Asymmetrical balance creates flow and draws attention directly to where you wish the viewer’s eyes to settle. Understanding how to effectively use color creates flow. You can also create flow by emphasizing motion. Some use tools like grids for an organization and proper alignment.
With practice and patience, you will learn to use asymmetry in a bigger project. You’ll also begin creating interesting pieces that you love.
