Which 2 Principles of Design Did Jacob Lawrence Use in Going Home?

Jacob Lawrence was a renowned painter who used some very simple elements in his work to create powerful messages. His work often focused on themes of African American culture and history, and he was known for his use of vibrant colors and bold lines.

One of his most famous works is the painting Going Home, which was part of a series that he created in 1941. In this painting, Lawrence explores themes of home, family, and identity through the use of two fundamental principles of design: balance and contrast.

Balance

Lawrence used balance in Going Home to create a sense of harmony in the composition. He achieved this by evenly distributing elements throughout the canvas, such as figures and blocks of color.

This creates a sense of equilibrium between the different elements and allows them to coexist peacefully. Lawrence also uses symmetry to further emphasize this balance. The two figures are symmetrically placed on either side of the canvas while the background is symmetrical as well.

Contrast

In addition to balance, Lawrence also uses contrast to draw attention to certain elements in Going Home. He contrasts sharp lines with curved ones to create depth and interest in the composition.

By alternating between hard edges and softer edges, Lawrence creates an intriguing visual tension that adds dynamism to the painting. Furthermore, he also uses stark black-and-white contrasts alongside bright colors for a dramatic effect.

Conclusion:

Jacob Lawrence’s Going Home is an example of how simple principles like balance and contrast can be used effectively in artworks to create powerful messages. By using these two principles together, Lawrence was able to explore themes such as home, family, and identity while creating a visually stunning piece that continues to captivate viewers today.