Final answer:
When visual elements are symmetrically arrayed around a central point in all directions, it is known as radial balance. This concept is often seen in Buddhist mandala paintings and is also noted in the architectural central plan design. Symmetrical balance, which includes radial symmetry, contributes significantly to the visual strength of an artwork.
Step-by-step explanation:
When visual elements are distributed around a central point in all directions, the concept is referred to as radial balance. This type of balance suggests movement from the center of a composition towards the outer edge and vice versa. A well-known example of this can be found in Buddhist mandala paintings, which typically have a central spirit figure radiating outward, creating a star shape. This results in a composition that is symmetrical and conveys a sense of movement through the use of concentric circles within a rectangular format. Another example of radial balance in art is a sunflower viewed head-on, which exhibits radial symmetry, creating a strong sense of unity.
In architecture, a central plan refers to an arrangement of structural elements around a central point, often forming a circle or an octagon, providing stability and balance to the design. Contrastingly, symmetrical balance, which is characterized by compositional design that is identical on either side of an axis, is exemplified by natural examples such as the Moon Jellyfish. Both radial and symmetrical balance contribute to the visual power of an artwork, as seen in the revolutionary nonrepresentational paintings of Piet Mondrian, who used these principles to great effect.