Welcome to
The Painting Lesson
by Linda Carson
big black pig studio
98 King St. N., Waterloo Ontario Canada
www.bigblackpig.com
Symmetry
Symmetry is a patterned repetition of forms. For example, something has "bilateral symmetry" when it's the same on both sides, like the teapot below, and most people. Star and floral shapes usually demonstrate "radial symmetry," the same shape repeated around a central point.
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For example: From the right viewpoint, a teapot is bilaterally symmetric. |
Symmetry is overrated. It's just the ticket when you want to create a formal or peaceful mood. However, it can also look static and old-fashioned. It may give the viewer the feeling they're looking at a documentary piece: Here's a teapot, and once you've identified the subject as a teapot, you're finished looking at the painting. Symmetrical composition was desirable and attractive to Renaissance viewers, but today we generally prefer balanced but asymmetrical arrangements.
Back to the main lesson?Art & Text (C) Linda Carson 2002
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This is my livelihood."