Question

Give an example of how you can achieve the effect of asymmetrical balance.

A) Placing two identical chairs on either side of a room
B) Placing a small table on one side of the room and a large sofa on the other
C) Using a symmetrical rug in the center of the room
D) Hanging identical paintings on opposite walls

Answer 1

Asymmetrical balance is achieved when two sides of an image do not mirror each other, but still have approximately the same visual weight, detail, shape, or color. Examples include the sculpture Doryphoros by Polykleitos and a graphic poster from the 1930s.

Step-by-step explanation:

Asymmetrical balance is achieved when two sides of an image do not mirror each other, but still have approximately the same visual weight, detail, shape, or color. A good example of asymmetrical balance is the Classical Greek sculpture Doryphoros (The Spearbearer) by Polykleitos. The sculpture is not posed in a symmetrical way, but it still appears balanced due to the distribution of weight and tension in the different parts of the body. This technique, called contrapposto, is often used to create a sense of life and animation in standing human figures.

Another example of asymmetrical balance can be seen in a graphic poster from the 1930s. The offset positioning and strong contrasts in the poster's composition create a visually dynamic and balanced effect.