Gestalt Principles of Visual Perception

Gestalt Principles of Visual Perception

Gestalt principles describe how the human brain organizes visual information into meaningful patterns and shapes.

1. Proximity

• Objects near each other are perceived as related or grouped together
• Closer objects are more likely to be seen as a unit

2. Similarity

• Similar objects are perceived as related or grouped together
• Similarity can be based on shape, color, size, or other visual characteristics

3. Continuity

• The human brain tends to complete incomplete shapes or patterns
• The brain assumes continuity of a shape or pattern even when it's not complete

4. Closure

• The brain completes incomplete shapes or patterns by filling in gaps
• Closure helps to create a sense of unity and completeness

5. Figure-Ground

• The brain distinguishes between objects (figures) and their background
• The figure is the object of focus, while the ground is the surrounding environment

6. Common Fate

• Objects moving together are perceived as related or grouped together
• Common fate helps to create a sense of unity and movement

7. Good Continuation

• The brain prefers continuous patterns and shapes over discontinuous ones
• Good continuation helps to create a sense of flow and coherence

8. Past Experience

• Past experiences and memories influence our perception of visual information
• The brain uses prior knowledge to make sense of new information

9. Symmetry

• Symmetrical objects are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing and balanced
• Symmetry helps to create a sense of order and harmony

10. Proportion

• The brain perceives objects in relation to their surroundings and other objects
• Proportion helps to create a sense of balance and harmony

These principles help to explain how the human brain processes visual information and creates meaningful patterns and shapes.