BALANCE

 

    When discussing balance in the context of graphic design we are talking about the psychological sense of a balanced equilibrium the viewer feels when observing the piece. The designer’s goal in creating balance to place all elements of his design in an aesthetically pleasing manner that creates the arrangement of balance both consciousness and unconsciousness. Balance does not always have to be in such a formal manner. Balance in design can be seen as the distribution of the elements of the design across the entire piece. Larger objects appear heavier and smaller appear lighter. The three major ways to create balance in a piece are symmetrical balance when everything in the design is evenly spaced and balanced out. The next type of balance seen in design is asymmetrical balance, asymmetrical balance is when the disparate elements still give the feeling of balance and appear to the viewer as a balanced design. When one splits the design or image in half the elements do not necessarily align perfectly or at all but still give the feeling of balance because the elements seem to balance on another out. Off Balance element of design makes the viewer feel just that off balance, the placement of elements creates moves and uneasiness to the viewer. The designer should never do this by mistake and always do it purposefully because no one enjoys looking at an off balanced design that can make him or her sick.

The Picture I used to represent balance is a form a symmetrical balance, in the photo you can see every element is spaced evenly on both sides. The distance between couches, pillows, windows, and table with all four elements of the table spaces evenly. One issue with this photo is I wish I had standing a little further to the left so as to show just how symmetrically this room actually is and was done on purpose by the interior designer. When you walk into this room you automatically feel of sense of comfort, that every thing is aligned perfectly and the brain interprets this symmetrical design as calmness and relaxation.  I love going here and just relaxing in it because it takes me to a very peaceful state of mind and the goal of balance is to do just that. To bring the viewer to balance when the viewer is balanced he or she can relax and feel comfortable with the design without even consciously knowing why this is happening to them, this is the real magic of being a good designer.