Repetition is a theme in the art world. By repeating an artistic theme, the artist adds strength to the idea he is attempting to convey. Obviously, with enough repetitions the artistic element being repeated takes on a life of its own, becoming what is referred to as a pattern. Patterns, by and large, are associated with what is safe, normal and orderly. In some respects pattern is to art what rhythm is to music, that is, it allows the person experiencing it to be pulled into the process and move with it, their hands, their feet, their eye and their mind. It’s that sense of movement which makes a pattern-based art piece distinct from one that makes use of a single focal point, which can also draw the viewer in, but also seems to ask the viewer to stay still and focused on that object. Repetition can surprise and delight. But, in photography it can also get boring. Sometimes a little unexpected change in the middle of a pattern is a great way to goose the viewer.
Key Takeaways:
- Patterns are in art what rhythm is to music, drawing the person experiencing it to wander through the highs and lows and back and forth of the experience.
- Although patterns can be surprising and interesting in photography, their overuse can sometimes get boring.
- By adding in one discordant note into an otherwise clear photographic pattern the artist goose’s the viewer and prevents boredom.
“If you repeat something many times it becomes a pattern and takes on a life of its own.”
Read more: https://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/repetition-and-patterns-in-photography/