Gestalt Theory Anderson University
Gestalt Theory Palomar College
Escher
The principles of Gestalt are all grouping principles, they are:
- Figure and Ground
The words you are reading right now are clearly perceived as figure and the surrounding white space is understood to be ground. Because the letter shapes are not complicated it makes reading easy and clear. The figures are clear. This is known as Clear Figure on Ground. - In the image below, the figure and ground relationships change or reverse as the eye perceives either the form of a vase or the silhouettes of two faces. This change in perception occurs because the faces and the vase both share the same common contour line/edge between them. This is called Figure/Ground Reversal.
- This next image uses slightly more complex figure/ground relationships which change because of the incomplete line/edge, otherwise known as an implied line/edge. This implied line/edge creates a slight amount of ambiguity because all the white area can no longer all be called ground and all the black areas can no longer all be called figure. In both cases, they change. This is known as Figure Becoming Ground (or Ground Becoming Figure).
- Similarity
Similarity occurs when objects look similar to one another. People often perceive them as a group or pattern. Many animals make use of similarity in the patterns of their fur or skin to create camouflage for defensive purposes. Artists such as James Christensen may exploit this for special effects.
This album cover art by Lee Conklin appears as as single unit (a lion) because all of the shapes have similarity to the details of a lions face/head. This creates visual unity which is predictable. However, on closer look, those same shapes are also similar to other individual faces or figures.
When similarity occurs, an object can be emphasised if it is dissimilar to the others. This is called anomaly.
- Continuation occurs when the eye is compelled to move through (interruption) one object and continue along a similar direction first established. Continuation occurs in the example below, because the viewer’s eye will naturally follow a line or curve regardless of the color change. (This is essential in the use of implied line/edge.)
- Proximity (sometimes also referred to as Emergence) occurs when elements are placed close together. They tend to be perceived as a group. When the squares are given close proximity, unity occurs. While they continue to be separate shapes, they are now perceived as one group.
The ten green squares below are placed without proximity. They are perceived as separate shapes. However, because of their similar color (green) they are perceived as a group.
- Closure occurs when an object is incomplete or a space is not completely enclosed. If enough of the shape is indicated, people perceive the whole by filling in the missing information. It’s the idea that your brain will fill in the missing parts of a design or image to create a whole. Although the panda in the logo for the World Wildlife Fund is not complete, enough is present for the eye to complete the shape. When the viewer’s perception completes a shape, closure occurs.
- Isomorphic Correspondence
We respond to some images very strongly, based on our experiences in the physical world. Sharp, pointed shapes communicate danger or pain because we’ve felt the pain of thorns, broken glass, etc. A picture of a Thanksgiving turkey may stir memories of warm, happy family dinners. We’re responding to the meaning of the image, associating it with memories we have. Isomorphic Correspondence simply means that we respond to meaning. When we see an image such as a painting or a photo, we interpret its meaning based upon our experiences and memories.
Interactive demo of Gestalt Principles (Shockwave plug-in needed)
Visual Perception by Daniel Chandler, has good visual examples.
The Visual Representation of Information covers many of the principles discussed above, with examples.
Gestalt and Photographic Composition: Introduction, Figure/Ground, Closure, Proximity, Isomorphic Correspondence.
Gestalt and Typography looks at proximity and similarity, then applies these ideas to typography. (Shockwave plug-in needed)
Gestalt by Betty Seabolt is a good verbal explanation with, unfortunately, no visuals.
Art, Design and Gestalt Theory by Roy R. Behrens is a detailed academic explanation.
We also use the basic Elements of Design and Principles of Design to control image similarity (grouping) or contrast.
Other Principles of Design or variables are employed to further manipulate or enhance the perception of group or wholeness/unity:
Perception
Graphic Design Thoughts 