Symmetry in design

  

      Symmetrical balance in visual art is design that has equal areas on both sides of a central line. It may be equal color value, equal amount and kind of ornament, or equal size and shape of components. 

      Perfect symmetry is a mirror image, where two sides are separated by a central axis and one side is the exact opposite of the other. The best example I know of to show perfect symmetry in an art form is the majestic Taj Mahal. 

        Here is another example of formal symmetry as an art form, although it is not quite as formal. It is still symmetrical but with variety on each side. 

We are symmetrical beings. Our physical bodies are perfectly balanced by the central axis of our spine, with the same components on each side of that axis. 

We are designed with symmetrical balance, and so we seek balance in our lives.

We seek it, we crave it; that's just the way we are designed.

So where is the balance?

 This art jewelry piece is balanced; it has a central focal piece and an arrangement of symmetrical components on each side. It is also rich in color and texture and is one of a kind. 

However, I am the artist and as such am not yet satisfied. 

 I want to give it an upgrade, push the edge of the envelope, and take it deeper. I want it to be an inspiration of balance.

I mean, an art piece can be balanced but still lack excitement. 

This one needs to be taken apart and re-constructed with a new level of dazzle dazzle. 

The components of this piece are like pieces chipped off the palette of Jackson Pollack himself. (Not that he ever used a palette; actually, I  am pretty sure he got up on ladders and poured gloss enamel paint on canvas. His "palette" was actually his paint cans!) But if he did in fact have a palette these pieces would have been chipped off from it.

I love  the thickness and the variety of color and the build up of layers of paint on these pieces. They certainly embody the essence of Parts of Art. 

My intention for my new jewelry pieces is to make them more about the parts of art (acrylic paint pieces, canvas, clay, leather, and other choice findings from our studio) and less about store bought beads and findings. In other words, more balanced!

Drum roll please......

So I dismantle the old and bring in the new

And added some tribal glam and a primitive new clasp. 

Now we have the same juicy Jackson Pollack squares of paint in all their colorful glory, and they are still arranged with  basic formal symmetry. There's just more jazz, more elements and components to give harmony and punch to the design.

I would love to hear from you as to which one you like and where you think I should go from here. 

 Please also feel free to leave comments about how you stay balanced. 

This piece is available to purchase on my Etsy store.