Weight, Balance and Direction
Every rectangle carries a structural skeleton: its centre, its two axes, and its diagonals. Any element is read in relation to that skeleton.
Visual weight behaves like a lever. An element's pull depends on its weight and its distance from the centre:
moment = weight x distance from the centre
Balance occurs when moments on both sides match. A small accent far out can counter a large mass near the centre.
What raises visual weight
- Size: larger elements are heavier.
- Value contrast: higher contrast against the ground adds weight.
- Chroma: more saturated colours pull harder.
- Isolation: an isolated element is heavier than one in a cluster.
- Intrinsic interest: faces and text draw more attention than blank space.
- Position: weight increases with distance from the centre.
Direction is separate from weight. Gazes, diagonals, and gestures lead the eye across the canvas.
Canvas Formats and Proportions
French standard stretchers come in three proportion families for any given number:
| Number | Figure (F) | Paysage (P) | Marine (M) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 55 x 46 cm | 55 x 38 cm | 55 x 33 cm |
| 20 | 73 x 60 cm | 73 x 54 cm | 73 x 50 cm |
| 40 | 100 x 81 cm | 100 x 73 cm | 100 x 65 cm |
Classical division lines guide composition placement across the canvas width. On a canvas 100 cm wide:
- The rule-of-thirds lines sit at 33.3 cm and 66.7 cm.
- The golden-section lines sit at 38.2 cm and 61.8 cm.
Common pitfall: confusing balance with symmetry. A symmetrical arrangement has Balance, but an asymmetrical layout can too. Before moving a large shape, try placing a small, dark accent on the lighter side.