Be Prepared: Learning Log: Turn in TWMM book-due by Friday, May 11th On Desk: Symmetry Polyptych letter? Pencil Color Medium? TWMM book? BPW Book Take one from the back table and I will check it out to you Learning Log: Turn in TWMM book-due by Friday, May 11th TWMM Unit Test-handed back Wed. or Thurs.

What is a Polyptych? Day 1 A polyptych is a piece of art in four or more parts. In this case, we will do a study of 4 types of symmetry found in both art and math. Often you will find these types of symmetry reflected in nature as well. In art, we often refer to the symmetry as balance. What is meant by this is how the piece is visually balanced. Art work that doesn’t apply a type of balance is often very unsettling to the eye.

A couple of examples of completed Polyptych Projects…

A few more examples …

Each piece of the polyptych is done on a 5.5” square piece of paper. Any type of drawing medium (pencil, colored pencil, crayon, or marker) is acceptable. All space on the square must be used. When all four are complete, they will be mounted together for display.

Square ONE: Reflection Symmetry Another way to think of this is “mirror-image”. What is found on one side of the central line will be found in exact duplication on the other side. Examples in nature are abundant; the human body and most other mammals are examples. To create reflective symmetry: Fold the square paper in half. On each side of the half-way line, draw geometric shapes in the same placement and of the same size. Fill the space on both sides to create an interesting design. Shapes may cross the central line but must mirror each other in order to maintain symmetrical balance. If color is desired, then the color should also keep the symmetry.

Can you find the line or lines of reflection?

Square TWO: Asymmetrical symmetry or balance A way to think of this is an old-fashion balancing scale used for trade. The merchants will measure goods on one side of the scale and place weights on the other side to balance the scales, thus determining the value of the goods. Again, natural examples are plentiful. Most plants and trees are good examples of asymmetrical balance.

To create asymmetrical symmetry: Fold the paper in half. On each side of the half-way line, draw geometric shapes that balance each other but are not exactly the same. For example, the left side may contain a large circle, colored in solid. It may take several shapes on the right side to balance the visual weight of the circle. Fill the space on both sides of the central line to create an interesting design. Shapes may cross the center line but the visual balance must remain intact. If color is desired, then the weight of the colors must be taken into account. Darker colors feel heavier than light, bright colors. It is possible to upset the balance of design by not balancing the colors.

Can you see the asymmetrical symmetry, or balance?