eryn’s cool blog

This composition utilizes Gestalt principles, such as proximity and containment. By placing the shapes making up the cube close to one another, the principle of proximity occurs, allowing one’s mind to see the separate shapes and fuse them into one cohesive cube. Containment is the most obvious principle implemented. By crafting a wooden frame out of driftwood and surrounding the entire image, one’s eye is prevented from leaving the composition’s surface. Finally, repetition is seen in the background texture of the piece. The unity of this high key pattern forms togetherness. However, by breaking the pattern up with other textures, variety is also achieved.

Symmetry as well as asymmetry is evident. The symbol is symmetrically constructed, while the asymmetrical placement of certain textures around the image allows for movement and variety.  Furthermore, the juxtaposition of the glued feathers at the bottom of the image and the wooden frame against the flat surface of the paper textures adds a heightened appeal to the overall composition. Finally, a focal point is created with the blue bird at the top of the frame.

The deadly sin I attempted to illustrate is sloth. Inspiration came from the familiar saying, “the early bird gets the worm. ” The birds inside the box represent laziness, or failure to go beyond the confinement of their box or cage-like cell, while the bird flying away with the worm exemplifies motivation and drive.