Traditional Art Principles in Terms of Wire Wrapping
The following are art principles that most of you probably know about in regards to painting, drawing, or other fine arts, but these concepts can and should be considered in terms of wire wrapping as well.
Balance & Rhythm – Typically, you will find balance within a piece that follows one of the following compositions: Asymmetrical, Symmetrical, Reverse Symmetrical, Radial.
(This picture shows an example of reverse symmetry)
You can also find balance between the elements within a piece. Certain shapes will compliment each other, and you need to find the balance between the elements you plan on having within your creation. If you have a crystal, channel setting, and
Wire wraps can have rhythm if it gives intention and purpose to elemental groupings. A good rhythm between gems, wire, and texture will elevate the pendant.
Pattern & Texture
Our eyes are drawn to patterns, and the added detail can be worth the effort. Patterns can be found in nature, or man made.
Weave textures can form patterns like the railroad track weave depicted here in this pendant. You can also note that the loop setting of the Emerald Cut Garnet is a pattern of looped, in a circular format. It brings a great detail element to this small but packed pendant.
Emphasis
This can be placed on multiple elements within a wrap. You can place emphasis a centerpiece or a bail.
In this picture, your eye is likely drawn first to the centerpiece Labradorite.
The dark blue/flashy lab contrasts well against the bright silver & gold colors.
The coils all repeat the shape of the pear cut Lab, and the loops bring the coil pointing back in the direction of the Lab, thus placing a ton of emphasis on the centerpiece.
Contrast & Color:
Mixed Metals - This pendant features a mixed Sterling Silver & Goldfill
Gem Color – The Color of stones paired with each other should be considered. Think about the color wheel
This pendant features complimentary colors; blue and orange, which are opposites on the color wheel.
Value: A great way to see the value of something is to snap a picture and desaturate the image. You’ll see the values for what they are without color.
Movement
Wire wrappers talk about flow a lot. Flow goes hand in hand with movement. Curves and lines lead the eye in certain directions. Consider the direction your design’s flow takes you. They key here is to make your flow always go into the pendant. You want to engage the viewers eye as long as possible.
