Gestalt

Perception Theory and Gestalt. This assignment explored how we consider shape in space, and the potential interpretations. This assignment helped us to explore interpreting an image based on context or a reference system. Some shapes require us to make a decision to discern the context. Ultimately we learn through this exercise that we only see clearly what we want to see, based on our own internal behaviors and chosen intentions. The challenge of being limited to a set number of cubes was interesting. I realized I needed to step back on how I was approaching the assignment, to be able to engage with the exercise. The parameters of the assignment required us to create 7 artboards, as 2D compositions, emphasizing different principles taught on the Gestalt Theory. For each artboard, we were limited to 9 squares that measured one inch square.

Software used: Adobe Illustrator

Continuation

I was thinking about what you would see of a larger pattern, when zoomed in to the details, what the pixels may look like if you were just looking at a small pocket of an image, or pattern.

Symmetry

The entire form is balanced and symmetrical, as well as multiple portions, if you look to the external pieces, they form a shape, balanced in the space, as well as the inner rectangle, or lines to the rotated pieces. No matter what you focus on, the shapes related to each other in the space in a balanced way, creating a multi-layered symmetrical balanced piece.

Figure Ground

The pieces all relate to each other, similarly however not quite. The mind can see a variety of images depending on the frame of mind, how it wants to perceive the piece. This reminds me of nature, where you can detect a pattern, however it is not “perfect” but organic.

Closure

The mind wants to fill in the blanks to finish the piece, however the spacing creates some tension as it is not perfectly clear how the piece would be closed or finished. There are multiple options that would close the gap, and they could all result in different outcomes. This concept reminds me of the journey we take through life, we get presented different choices and options and as young adults, for the first time, the “correct” path is not obvious as there are more than one options; it is up to the individual to decide and choose for themselves for their own reasons.

Foreground, Middle ground, and Background

This could be one object, viewed from different vantage points. Depending on where you are, you may see something completely different than what could be observed from a different vantage point.

Similarity

The two figures are identical, nearly. The mind wants to resolve the difference, but there is a difference, and this creates some tension as the mind has to reconcile that there are two forms and they are not the same, but they do closely resemble each other. This reminds me of identical twins. I have a set of identical twins in my family; and they are similar, but they are definitely two unique individuals which clearly define one person from the other.

Proximity

These forms relate to each other, and they can also stand apart on their own merit. They could be one mass, working toward the same goal, but they are, as presented here, apart, not one mass. Near enough to relate, but far enough to create an additional layer of energy and tension.