For example, a large, dark-colored shape positioned near the center of a composition will have more visual weight than a smaller, lighter-colored shape positioned near the edge. The elements of art that contribute to balance in a composition include line, shape, size, position, form, texture, pattern, color, and positive and negative space.

In line drawings, artists use lines of varying thickness, direction, and curvature to achieve balance. For example, in Michelangelo’s sketches, the interplay of straight and curved lines creates dynamic yet balanced compositions.

Maurits Cornelis Escher, otherwise known as M.C. Escher, created geometric abstract artwork, also referred to as tessellations, that appear perfectly balanced using repetition and patterned motifs. Examples include Day and Night (1938), Drawing Hands (1948), and Lizard (1942), among many others.