Balance refers to the distribution of visual weight in an artwork. There are different types of balance including formal balance where elements are equal on both sides of a central line, radial balance where elements radiate from a central point, and informal balance where sides are different but still visually balanced. The visual weight of elements like shape, color, value, line, and texture can make them appear heavier or lighter in a composition. Position is also a factor, as a large central object can be balanced by a smaller offset object.

5. BALANCE
• Balance refers to the distribution of visual
weight in an artwork. The visual weight is
created by the various art elements in the
art work.

6. FORMAL BALANCE
• When elements on
both sides of a central
vertical or horizontal
line appear to be
equal or close to
equal.
• A.K.A.-Symmetrical or
Classical Balance

8. Symmetry
• When both sides of a balanced composition
are identical (mirror images of each other).

9. RADIAL BALANCE
• When all the
elements radiate
out from a central
point.

10. INFORMAL BALANCE
• Involves two sides or
halves that contain
elements that are
different, but yet are still
in visual balance.
• A.K.A.- Asymetrical
Balance

11. WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS
element heavier lighter
contour/shape
larger,
complex,
interesting
smaller,
simple

12. WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS
element heavier lighter
Color Bright/Warm Dull/Cool

14. WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS
element heavier lighter
Value
Most
Contrast
Least
Contrast

15. element heavier lighter
Line
heavy, dark
and
complicated
light and
simple
texture rough smooth
WEIGHT OF THE ELEMENTS

16. POSITION-large objects near the
center of a work can be balanced
by a smaller object placed far
from the center