Dynamic symmetry

A theory linked to ancient Egyptian and Greek art, it is linked to the 5th Century BC by Jay Hambidge, 1867-1924, who introduced the existence of such a theory in his 1917 treatise, "Dynamic Symmetry". Subsequently he did much more writing and promotion of the subject, which held that works of art could be considered symmetrical if they held to the kinetic symmetry or balanced lines of nature such as that found in pine cones and sunflowers. This theory did not apply to the static geometric symmetry of inanimate forms. In other words, a composition could be symmetrical if there is a sense of symmetry between various areas around the object regardless of the correspondences of the length of the lines. Artists associated with Dynamic Symmetry in addition to Jay Hambidge are Ralph Johonnot, Irving Manoir, Julian Bowes, David Carter, Elanor Colburn, Emil Bisttram and Howard Giles. Source: Ralph Mayer, "A Dictionary of Art Terms and Techniques"; Peter Hastings Falk, "Who Was Who in American Art"