N O V E M B E R

December

How does repetition help create unity?

The most valuable and widely used device for achieving visual unity is repetition. As the term implies, something simply repeats in various parts of design to relate the parts to each other. The element that repeats can be almost anything—a color, a shape, a texture, a direction, or an angle. In those sculptures by Louise Nevelson shows unity by repetition. The complicated pattern of small fragments of wood over the whole surface is a unifying element in itself, almost remind us of Gothic cathedral’s delicate and complex façade. But another factor of visual unity is the frequent repetition of vertical rectangular boxes in many of his sculpture pieces, each one enclosing and framing varying patterns of small details.

Why would a designer want to emphasize an element of a design?

Because the designer’s main enemy is apathy. We, designers, would prefer to have our viewers stand and revile our image than to pass it quickly with a bored feeling. Our job is to catch attention and provide a pattern that stimulates the viewer by offering some visual satisfaction.

What are some ways to do this?

Nothing will guarantee success, but one device that can help is a point of emphasis, or focal point. This attracts attention and encourages the viewer to look further.

January