Balancing your art doesn't necessarily mean symmetrical

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Using symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangements of art can create either a formal or a casual feeling.

When designers refer to the balance of art, some take that to mean they have to hang them in perfect symmetry, either to themselves (in a grouping) or within the room.

Basically, symmetry simply means that when an arrangement is divided in half, each half is a mirror image of the other. This can be the right or wrong approach, depending on the desired effect in the room.

It is true that symmetry adds balance and formality to an arrangement and is generally pleasing and calming to the observer. However, aysmmetrical arrangements create something unexpected, and much more informal, by displaying pictures in an eye-catching grouping.

As a rule of them, symmetry is a more formal approach, and asymmetry would be used if you want to create a more casual feel in a room.

But always remember balance, even asymmetrical arrangements shouldn't be random. There is always some kind of order in the chaos of decor.