figure/ground we tend to see figures with similar characteristics—eg: shape, color, texture, etc. as belonging together.

similarityIdentical visual elements will be seen together as groups.

proximityObjects closest to one another will appear as if they were in a group.

closureOur minds naturally connect the dots. We see closed shapes visually anchored.

continuanceCreates a sense of direction or movement with a line or curve.

translationmoving of all points in an object equally in any direction.

rotationan object turning around on an axis point.

reflectionan object acting as if it was reflecting itself.

glide/reflectionthe reflection of an object along a line plus a translation along the same exact line.

dilationthe enlargement of an object.

structure 1

structure 2

structure 3

structure 4

structure 5

structure 6

symmetric balanceWell-proportioned as a whole. The form and arrangement are regular and are corresponding parts.

asymmetric balanceThere is no balance and symmetry in the object. Everything is off balance and different lengths.

ambiguous balanceAn object or thing with a double meaning. Something that can be viewed as more than one thing.

neutral balanceNot supporting a line or position.

© tracey lynn frye, september 20, 2012

completed as a requirement for visual communication in the

graphic design department at the kansas city art institute.

michael kidwell, assistant professor.