Have you ever looked at the back of the mask? Did you notice that it is hard to see the mask as concave after a while? This relates to a theory of perception known as Gestalt. The Gestalt theory addresses the mind’s need to find unity in what is being viewed, or "The whole is greater than the sum of the parts". For example, when looking at the back of the mask the representation of the face is caving in. The mind is not used to faces caving in, so it unifies this image by forcing it to seem as though it is just like a normal face, protruding out rather than caving in. This is because the mind has never seen a face caving inward only faces as protruding out, so it seeks to unify the back of the mask by seeing as it views faces. This can be viewed on youtube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbKw0_v2clo
There are many ways to achieve unity in a design without relying fully on the mind of the viewer. Proximity is one of the simplest methods for achieving unity involving the placement of objects in groups. These groups tend to be closer together in order to create an appearance suggesting that they belong together. There is a photograph from the online website of Homes and Gardens found at, http://www.homesandgardens.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=2580. The photograph is of an entry table with multiple and varying ceramic forms on it is a good example of proximity. The ceramic goods are grouped to one side of the table close together rather than with any particular pattern. This proximity between the objects creates unity by making them seem to relate to one another. Although they are a bunch of random sizes, colors, and pieces, the fact that they are groups together makes the design more appealing and interesting. Likewise, the repetition of ceramic objects can serve to further create a visual relationship between the objects.
Another way to suggest a relationship between objects is by the use of repetition. The repetition of form, shape, color, texture, object, or pattern can be used to depict unity between the elements. An example of repetition is seen in this photograph by Gary Everson that is taken of a statue called repetition and seen at the top of the page. The image shows the statue as repeated circles. The circles are also the same size, texture, and color furthering the use of repetition throughout to emphasize the relationship between the objects.
The method known as continuation is unlike the previous two because it is subtler. This tool involves the continuation of line, edge, or direction from one area of a work to another. The creators utilize these tools in order to guide the viewer to unity in the visual work. Edgar Degas’ painting called The Tub at the top, borrowed from the website http://images.worldgallery.co.uk/i/prints/rw/lg/2/0/Edgar-Degas-Le-Tub-207145.jpg, is an example of continuation. The line of the woman’s body continues diagonally through the painting. Likewise the line of the shelf also emphasizes continuation. This painting might also suggest proximity through the placement of the bathing objects close to one another on the shelf.
Without unity a work may seem too chaotic or random for the mind and individual to fully appreciate and understand. It is through unity that the mind is able to enjoy what is being viewed both aesthetically and through understanding. Not many people are left unaffected by the Gestalt theory offering an explanation as to why societies come to agreement on certain socially renowned or praised works. Gestalt theory may offer an explanation as to why people are so enamored by some designs and so completely turned off to others. The idea that the design, with the correct tools implemented, can create the unity in the mind that allows the design to become more interesting and pleasing, and, in turn, acclaimed by society due to being so universally liked and admired. This gives new perspective to the role the mind plays in society and the social arena of design.
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