1. S Y M M E T R Y in D E S I G N By Sheri Majewski
Developed for the 4th graders of
King Kaumuali’i Elementary School

2. Major Concepts
Symmetric design motifs are inspired by nature, geometric shapes, and patterns
Artists make connections with nature to create art and design
Artists create designs that involve personal experience, news, ideas, culture, and values

3. What is Symmetry? Symmetry is an arrangement of parts, or shapes.
It conveys harmony and balance.
It is pleasing as it reflects perfection or beauty.
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Asymmetry is another way to arrange parts, or shapes.
It conveys irregularity or unevenness.

4. Symmetry and Asymmetry

5. Let’s Take a Closer Look at Symmetry in Nature
Can you describe the symmetrical or asymmetrical qualities in these examples?

6. We Can Examine Symmetry in Geometric Shapes and Line
What similarities or differences
do you see in these examples?

7. How is symmetry used in design? What are the principle elements?
Symmetrical design has shape, line, and proportion. Sometimes these elements are arranged in a motif.
Shape is a form, outline, or silhouette.
Line is the kind of stroke used to make an edge or outline.
Proportion is the balanced placement of parts.
Motif is a repeated pattern, image, or theme.

8. CAN YOU SEE LINE, SHAPE, SYMMETRY OR ASYMMETRY IN THESE DESIGNS?

9. Designs from Pacific Island Groups
Fiji Irian Jaya Samoa
What do these designs mean to you?
How do they express ideas, experience, and values of the artists?

10. HERE IS A GEOMETRIC MOTIF

11. THE REPEATED PATTERN CREATES A PROPORTIONED MOTIF

12. Hawai’i Society Islands Tonga
Tahiti
How do these designs use the elements of symmetry, motif, line, shape, and proportion?

13. WHAT DO YOU THINK INSPIRED THESE TRADITIONAL DESIGNS?

14. Let’s try it!
Are you ready to make art that is inspired by nature? Can you identify your work as symmetrical or asymmetrical? Try layering a variety of techniques to make a unified, expressive statement with your art.