Reading Response — Rhythm, Balance and Scale

Reading Response — Rhythm, Balance and Scale

Scale

Scale is a key element in this book jacket. The tree appears much larger than the city, making it and the threatening sky the dominant features. It visually plays along with the title, “Bloodroot,” and the red text just below the trunk of the tree drives home that visual metaphor. The scale of the tree relative to the cityscape in the background makes it look like its roots extend across the entire city.

Scale, Balance

This album cover utilizes both scale and balance in its design. “FiX” is scaled much larger than “The,” which draws viewers attention toward the name. The text ligature moves viewers lines through this simple graphic. Color and contrast add interest.

This piece also uses balance to create a harmonious yet interesting visual impact. The smaller text sits atop of the large, bold test, while the space surrounding it gives it breathing room. It creates a pleasing asymmetrical balance.

Balance

I had a hard time finding posters, etc. to use for sample images this week. But, this found image jumped out at me as a balanced composition. The thicker letters in the word “water” help balance the geometric pattern of the water pipes and valve. The overall effect is a balanced design, though it does tend to draw viewers eyes down to the end of the water spout, rather than through the “image.”

Balance, Rhythm

This photo illustrates both balance and rhythm. It achieves asymmetrical balance in a couple of key areas. The heavier feel of the darker blocks adds interest, contrast and weight. The greater mass of the white blocks offsets the heaviness of the dark stripes. In the background, the telephone poles also provide asymmetrical anchor points and help draw viewers eyes through the image. The rail and steps accentuate this balance and help direct viewers eyes back into the frame.

This image also uses rhythm. The dark stripes of blocks provide a strong counterpart for the wider white blocks. It creates an even, strong “beat.”

Rhythm

Rhythm in images can be measured, slow, fast or erratic. Evenly spaced elements within an image establish order. Fragile lines can give the impression of fine, gentle music. Widely spaced elements creates a slow tempo, while spasmodic strands of light (see last image) impel viewers through an image at a faster pace.

This simple image shows a clean, evenly measured pace that moves at regular intervals throughout the frame.

Rhythm

This image shows freeform rhythm. Even so, it moves at a similar pace, building to a climax and then falling off toward the right side of the frame. It creates an irregular, yet somewhat patterned impression.

Rhythm (Chaos)

The rhythm in this image approaches chaos. It is frenetic and haphazard. It doesn’t appear to be moving in one direction, but back into itself. The proximity of the strands of light create the impression of a frantic tempo, while the chaotic layering of lines of light on top of each other create tension — almost stress.

 

 

Text