Asymmetrical balance, also called informal balance, happens when elements are not evenly spaced or symmetrically distributed throughout the composition, but the design still has balance. It is often difficult to assess the success of these arrangements, because the contrasting parts may, at first glance, appear to be unbalanced. The artist has to figure out a way to counter-balance small shapes with large shapes and bright colors with dull colors in unequal proportions to create visual weight that is balanced throughout the work.

The example below shows how balance can be achieved even when a design is not symmetrical.

The darker more clustered squares on the left are visually heavier and balanced by the larger number of circles that take up a greater amount of space in the design. Since it is hard to objectively gauge asymmetrical balance, a good trick is to stand far away or squint while looking at your design. Viewing it when all the elements are blurred together will help you see how the design balances as a whole.

Asymmetry can be unpredictable and exciting, and creates the most visual interest of any of the techniques we've covered in this lesson. Using asymmetrical balance opens new doors and offers a great deal of design possibilities. An artist might choose to balance textured space with a smooth surface, or dark colors with light ones, or a spiked line with a clean curve. Although compelling, this kind of asymmetry is much more difficult to achieve. Still, it can be found in all the disciplines of art, including architecture.