Ordering principles

Ordering principles
• In a composition that uses elements, regardless of the
logic of organization, we can establish an ordered
relationship between the elements by the use of
Ordering Principles.
• These principles, unlike organizing principles, they are not
due to the manifestation of the actual structure of the
composition
• rather it is a relationship defined between the elements
as parts of the composition that can contribute to the overall
effect.
 Ordering principles
• Order refers not simply to geometric regularity, but
rather to a condition in which each part of a whole is
properly assembled with reference to other parts so as
to produce a harmonious arrangement.
• Order without diversity can result in monotony or
boredom; diversity without order can produce chaos.
• A sense of unity with variety is the ideal.
 Ordering principles
• Axis
• Symmetry
• Hierarchy
• Datum
• Rhythm
• Repetition
 Axis
• A line defined between two points in space about which
forms can be arranged in a symmetrical or balanced
manner.
• This line can be actual or implied
• The overall impact of the introduction of an axis is that it
establishes an order of significance between the
elements of design.
 Axis
• an axis has qualities of length and direction, and induces
movement and promotes views along its path.

• For its definition, an axis must be terminated at both of its ends

by a significant form or space.

• The idea of an axis can be reinforced by defining edges along

its length. These edges can be simply lines on the ground plane, or
vertical planes that define a linear space coincident with the axis.

• An axis can also be established simply by a symmetrical

arrangement of forms and spaces.
 SYMMETRY
• It is nothing but the arrangement of objects that are
equidistant from an actual or implied axis.
 SYMMETRY
Two types of symmetry
• Bilateral symmetry; balanced arrangement of
similar or equivalent elements on opposite
sides of a median axis so that only one plane
can divide the whole into essentially identical
halves.
• Radial symmetry; balanced arrangement of
similar or equivalent elements such that the
composition can be divided into similar halves
by passing a plane at any angle around a
center point or along a central axis.
 HIERARCHY
• Way of establishing order from most dominant to least
dominant element.
• It establishes primary and secondary elements that
have a dependent relationship.
• Achieved by changing size, shape or location relative
to the other forms
 HIERARCHY
• Hierarchy by size

• Hierarchy by shape/orientation

• Hierarchy by placement
 DATUM
• The introduction of one dominant element in an
otherwise disordered composition may produce an
overall ordering effect on the existing forms.
• In such cases, we are considering the introduction of
the form as a datum.
• Such a form could be a line, Plane, Volume.
 DATUM
• To be an effective ordering device, a linear datum must
have sufficient visual continuity to cut through or
bypass all of the elements being organized.
• If planar or volumetric in form, a datum must have
sufficient size, closure, and regularity to be seen as a
figure that can embrace or gather together the elements
being organized within its field.
 DATUM
• Line

• Plane

• Volume
 REPITION
• Reoccurrence of similar elements define repetition.
• As a structure, repetition could be achieved by using
visible structural elements of form or by the use of
invisible formal elements that produce effects of
repeating spaces between visible forms.
 RHYTHM
• Reoccurrence of elements in a logical pattern.
• A unifying movement characterized by a patterned
repetition or alteration of formal elements or motifs in the
same or a modified form.
• Rhythm is hence a sense of order established
between elements that are in repetition, but not vice
versa.
 RHYTHM
• A regular rhythm: occurs when the intervals between
the elements, and often the elements themselves, are
similar in size or length.

Flowing: A flowing rhythm gives a sense of movement,

and is often more organic in nature.
Progressive:
A progressive rhythm
shows a sequence of forms
through a progression of
steps.

Repeats elements in an art work to create a visual tempo

 EXERCISE
2. MAKE AN ABSTRACT AND CREATIVE
COMPOSITION BY APPLYING THE
PRINCIPLE OF DATUM AS AN
ORGANIZING PRINCIPLE.