Unity discusses the need to tie the various elements of a work of art together. A unified work of art represents first a whole, then the sum of its parts. When all the elements in a work look as though they belong together, the artist has achieved unity.

You know unity has been achieved when all aspects of the design complement one another rather than compete for attention. All of the design principles (balance, movement, emphasis, visual economy, contrast, proportion and space) have been correctly applied. Everything selected for use in a composition must complement the key theme and must also serve some functional purpose within the design.

American Gothic

Unity can be achieved through the use of;

  • Similarity of shape, colour, line, ect
  • Proximity
  • Repetition
  • Alignment
  • Continuation
  • Consistent use of graphic elements

When unity is achieved:

  • The individual elements with in a composition will not be competing for attention.
  • The key theme will be communicated more clearly.
  • The design will evoke a sense of completeness and organization.
  • When nothing can distract from the whole you have unity.

The well-known painting “American Gothic” shows unity in its repeditive use of elongated curves and similar colours.

Unity in composition is hard to achieve, but below are a couple of logo whose designers at least came close.

More info on unity in art can be found as these sites;