Composition: A mutual assembling of parts to form a whole.
It has been determined that humans see the whole before we see the parts (tune into our next ARTology post about Gestalt psychology for more on this). In this regard, we have a natural tendency toward completeness and harmony. Symmetry tends to promote stability. Regularity creates rhythm.
John McLaughlin’s 2014 entry, “Running In Circles,” applies the rules of composition through a fluctuation of control and careful planning, along with letting go, allowing for surprises, then bringing it all back into a state of focus. Many layers are put together to depict beauty.
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Abstraction: The concentrated essence of a larger whole, considered apart from concrete existence.
Abstract work springs from and must be responsive to a physical reality. Abstract art comes from spirit rather than nature; in this sense, it is uniquely rooted in humanness. Exaggerated space, subjective use of color, and synchronicity of perspectives are all principles of abstraction.
“Ode to Cadere” is the 2014 abstract entry by artist Christie Helm. In her painting, Helm navigates space and paces out the boundaries of her space in vertical line and color: her abstraction represents the particular proxemics of her being in the world (proxemics defines the different personal spaces allotted to people in various cultures).
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Unity: The ability of a composition to coordinate its various parts into a stable whole.
Unity defies formulation but will often include careful attention to hierarchy, rhythm and balance. It is the positive effect of establishing a sympathetic relationship between parts. Even a disjointed composition can achieve unity; for example, in a crowded street. Visual unity denotes some harmony or agreement between items that is apparent to the eye.
Thomas Roeser’s 2014 piece, “Ecuador”, coordinates the elements of a market as a vibrant space full of color and life. Lifelines in all civilizations, markets stand the test of time as the harmonic crossroads of people, goods and commerce. The experience is a kaleidoscope of colorful sights, creating a unity between the beauty of the Ecuadorian culture and its attachment to the global experience.
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