1.3 Principles of Design in 3-D

Organizing form

The principles of design — balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, rhythm, proportion, unity, and variety — organize three-dimensional form just as they do 2-D work.

Balance in space

Balance in 3-D includes physical stability (an object must actually stand) and visual balance from every viewpoint. Proportion and scale relate parts to the whole and to the viewer.

Movement around the work

In 3-D, movement includes how a viewer moves around the piece, and how the form leads the eye through space. All sides matter, not just a 'front.'

Key terms

Principles of design

balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, rhythm, proportion, unity, variety

Balance in 3-D

physical stability + visual balance from every side

Proportion / scale

parts to whole, and to the viewer

Movement

how the viewer moves around the work

All sides matter

3-D work is designed to be seen in the round

Try an AP-style question

Balance in 3-D work involves…

1. physical and visual stability
2. only color choices
3. only the title
4. only flat layout