Final answer:
The term relating to set design that refers to the balance and arrangement of elements is 'composition', whether it is symmetrical for visual stability or asymmetrical for a dynamic effect. Composition plays a crucial role in the perception of artwork by influencing balance, stability, and movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Composition in Set Design
The term sought in the question regarding set design terminology is composition. This concept refers to the arrangement and balance of elements within an artwork, set design, or any visual presentation. When elements are balanced symmetrically, the result is typically seen as stable and formal.
An example of this would be Perugino's painting, Christ Giving the Keys of the Kingdom to St. Peter, where two halves of the composition mirror each other, instilling a sense of calm and formality.
Alternatively, asymmetry in composition uses elements that are offset, which can create a more dynamic and visually intriguing balance. For instance, a 1930s graphic poster employing offset positioning and strong contrasts effectively demonstrates this concept, captivating the viewer with its complex and visually engaging design.
Balance can be structural or visual, such as in the use of arches in architecture that provide both a structural function and create a pleasing aesthetic through balance.
In visual arts, the arrangement of elements affects not only the piece's balance but also its movement and weight distribution. An example of this could be seen in varying types of visual balance illustrated by variations in the placement of a white shape within different compositions.