[PBarnes]

Several months ago, for the Thursday challenges, I touched on the Elements of Design. For the month of December, we're going to look at the Principles of Design. There are several good websites out there that go further into depth on the subject.

In a good piece of design, whether it be a painting or a scrapbook page, you will incorporate many, if not all of the principles and many of the elements of design. We will be focusing on one or two of the principles each week, but don't put aside the other aspects of good design.

Balance in design is similar to balance in physics

A large shape close to the center can be balanced by a small shape close to the edge. A large light
toned shape will be balanced by a small dark toned shape (the darker the shape the heavier it appears to be) (Artist John Lovett's website)

It is a state of equalized tension and equilibrium, which may not always be calm.

Types of Balance
Symmetry
Asymmetrical produces an informal balance that is attention attracting and dynamic.
Radial balance is arranged around a central element. The elements placed in a radial balance seem to 'radiate'
out from a central point in a circular fashion.
Overall is a mosaic form of balance which normally arises from too many elements being put on a page. Due to the lack of hierarchy and contrast, this form of balance can look noisy.
(Wikipedia)

For today's challenge, I want you to give particular attention to your layout's Balance. I encourage you to read further by Googling the Principles of Design. You can do a layout of any subject with any number of photos that you wish to use.

Post your layouts in the General Message Board Gallery.

Here's mine: Lime Tree Bay Resort

[Florida granny]

I'm hoping to grab some time later today for this. It's a great idea -- I learned a lot the last time we did it. (Though, I probably need to pay more attention to these principles as I put layouts together. ) Meanwhile, I love your layout, Pat!

[teecee]

Great challenge and great layout Pat!

[SandiC.]

I love this sort of challenge.....thanks Pat....you are awesome.

[BetC]

Hoping to learn more about design principles - I tend to "wing it" and hope for the best!
Here's The Bird "Mest"

[Jane in N.Z]

Great challenge Pat started a LO last night will try and complete it

[Jane in N.Z]

My DD sent me a wonderful photo of the old Brighton Pier and I love it. Had to do 2 LO's of the same photo

Brighton Pier #2

Brighton Pier

[cherryyllaann]

Here is one from me for Monday's Balance Christmas 2007
Glad you have started these types of challenges again, I enjoy these.

[Nica]

I have two layouts that show the use of balance (in other words, I really had to work them over and think about balance to get them to look right and this challenge came along. )

Halloween Costumes
and
Before & After

[JeannieH]

Thanks for a great idea! Although I may not get the challenge done (work stuff right now) I know I will learn a lot when I do the search! Thanks for the nudge in the right direction!