Proportion/Scale

Definition

Proportion/Scale refers to how different parts relate to each other and the whole in terms of size, quantity, or ratio. It determines the overall harmony and balance within an artwork.

Analogy

Imagine baking a cake where all the layers are perfectly sized and balanced, creating a visually pleasing dessert. In art, proportion/scale is like that recipe for a well-balanced composition where elements have the right size relationships.

Related terms

Golden Ratio: The golden ratio is a mathematical concept used in art to create aesthetically pleasing proportions. It's often found in nature and has been used by artists throughout history.

Foreshortening: Foreshortening is a technique used to depict objects or figures at an angle, making them appear shorter or compressed due to perspective.

Hierarchical Scale: Hierarchical scale refers to the use of size differences between figures or objects to indicate their importance or status within an artwork.