Both in art and in nature there are such concepts as symmetry and asymmetry. We observe them daily in the world around us. And each subject has one or both of these concepts.
What is asymmetry in art
This is the exact opposite of symmetry. In art, it helps to express the dynamism of the action, to show the naturalness and ease of movement, to diversify the composition.
In an asymmetric composition, the symmetry is either slightly broken or completely absent. Objects can be located in one part of the canvas and carry a large load there. This is what asymmetry is. At the same time, harmony in an asymmetric composition is not violated, but on condition that the artist obeys certain rules of its construction.
Asymmetry we can observe in natural nature. The human body, for example, is not completely symmetrical. The limbs may vary slightly in length or thickness, one half of the face differs from the other by the curvature of the lips, wrinkles, the location of the eyebrows and the other. The photo below clearly shows what asymmetry is. Agree, if our facial features were symmetrical, it would not look very attractive!
Symmetry in life
Many objects are characterized by symmetry. It implies that certain parts are in equilibrium with respect to the central axis or point.
If an object is divided into equal parts and its extreme points of one side repeat the same opposite, then it can be judged as symmetrical. Perfectionists pay a lot of attention to symmetry.
It is used in decorative art (in drawing ornaments, for example). Symmetry and asymmetry in the composition are often used. For example, artists in the Renaissance perceived the language of symmetry as a reflection of the ideal, balanced state of an object. They sought to implement its laws.
The use of symmetry and asymmetry in art
In the painting "Betrothal of the Virgin Mary" by Renaissance artist Rafael Santi, the world is displayed in complete harmony and with all its splendor. Each object has strict logic.
What is asymmetry for paintings? In the work of Raphael, an impression of solemnity is created, but at the same time the characters are removed from the viewer, they are immersed in their thoughts, and at the same time their dynamics, which is characteristic of asymmetry, are well expressed. After all, only with the help of it can one express actions well.
The main action, putting a wedding ring on Mariaโs finger, is enclosed in the very center of the composition. The temple is symmetrically located in the picture in the background, in the center. Thus, the viewer can immediately determine the main actions in the picture, relate them and understand what the meaning is.
Some figures of the composition nevertheless break the symmetry, being located outside a certain sequence. Thus, the symmetry and asymmetry in the composition help to highlight the main actions and together create a harmonious work.