Learning to See: Proximity

Proximity is the distance between shapes. When two small shapes are close to each other, they visually combine to create a larger, more significant shape. It is easier for a viewer to see and understand one large shape than it is to see and understand many small shapes.

Proximity Questions

When looking at visual art and design, one thing that will help you see the composition more clearly is assessing proximity. Asking the following questions will help.

  • Are space relationships the same or different?
  • Are some of the shapes close enough together that they make a shape?